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When it comes to good nutrition, all forms of fruits and vegetables matter—fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice. With 200+ options and a variety of convenient packaging to make fruits and vegetables easy to store and easy to serve, there’s bound to be something to please everyone!

Most frozen and canned foods are processed within hours of harvest, so their flavor and nutritional value are preserved. 5 Facts about Canned Foods

Studies show that recipes prepared with canned foods had similar nutritional values to those prepared with fresh or frozen ingredients.

Canned foods are "cooked" prior to packaging, so theyare recipe-ready.

The amount of fruits and vegetables your family needs daily depends on caloric needs, which are determined by age, gender and activity level. Please visit our Meal Planning section to find out more....

Yes, salsa is typically a combination of chopped, usually uncooked, vegetables or fruit, especially tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers. One half a cup of salsa counts as one serving towards your fruit and/or vegetable servings for the day....

Pears ripen after harvest, so choose firm fruit. "Check the Neck for Ripeness" daily by applying gentle pressure to the stem end of the pear with your thumb. When the neck yields to gentle pressure, it is ready to eat....

One medium ear of corn has about 90 calories and is considered low fat and a good source of vitamin C. One medium onion has about 45 calories and is considered to be a good source of fiber and high in vitamin C....

Without knowing your sons’ height, it is difficult to judge where his weight falls on a growth chart. As for your son being hungry every thirty minutes, does he have any underlying medical conditions or take any medication? If the answer to both of those questions is...

If this is for a school cafeteria lunch program, we suggest introducing some fruits that kids may not be routinely exposed to, such as guava, papaya, mango, cherimoya and carambola if they are available. Try having themed days to get the kids excited about trying new foods...

First, focus on the positives-she likes to eat sweet potatoes and pesto (which you said contains peas and spinach)! Next, remember that it takes kids about 10-15 times of seeing a food before they will accept it. Since you said you are a vegetarian and eat fruits and...

We often hear of dietary supplements that promise the nutritional equivalent of whole foods such as fruits and vegetables in a little pill. The truth is …science is good, but not as good as Mother Nature! There are over 300 varieties of fruits and vegeta...

Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that is a good source of Vitamin A and Potassium. Acorn squash can be baked, roasted, steamed or stuffed. For baking, cut the squash into rings, removing any seeds or fibers. Brush with a bit of olive oil and place a hot oven u...

Pre-made vegetable trays are a convenient, quick and easy way to serve fresh veggies. The trays in the groceries are made from the same produce that is available to you in the store-they’ve just done the cutting, peeling, chopping and arranging for you. Many fr...

Introducing a baby to fruits and vegetables takes care and attention. Some experts believe it is best to introduce veggies first, then fruits because many babies prefer the taste of fruits over veggies and may not care for the veggies after they have eaten the sweet fruits...

Cooking vegetables in the microwave is an excellent way to maintain nutrients if done properly. Vegetables lose nutrients (as well as texture and flavor) when they are over-boiled in too much water. Microwave cooking of vegetables requires very small amounts or...

Of course! All fruits and veggies count towards your daily intake. No matter what types of fruits and veggies you consume, they all count. However, it is important to eat a colorful variety of fruits and veggies every day. If you find yourself eating the same types of frui...

Acorn squash and Butternut squash are two types of winter squash. Acorn squash is a good source of Vitamin A and Potassium. Acorn squash can be baked, roasted, steamed or stuffed. For baking, cut the squash into rings, removing any seeds or fibers. Brush with a bit o...

Fruits and vegetables provide a wide range of valuable nutrients like fiber, vitamins and potassium. You would probably notice very few effects in the short-term. One possible short-term effect might be constipation since fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, although t...

The foods that make up a healthy diet for most people are the same foods that people managing with diabetes should choose. That includes choosing a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are carbohydrates, and carbohydrates will impact blood sug...

The amount of fruits and veggies you need in a day depends on your sex, age and level of activity. In general, most people do not consume enough fruits and veggies, so one more is always a great start.
How much do you need?
Women MenGirlsBoys ...

It is true that the nutritional value of foods can change depending on the processing or preparation methods involved. Fruit and vegetables are no different. In the drying process of fruits, water is removed thus concentrating the natural sugars and calories.&n...

We’ve compiled a list of what counts as a cup and what counts as a half cup for some fruits and veggies. To see this list, go to http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/?page_id=63, We also have a great chart that is available in our kid’s sectio...

The Produce for Better Health Foundation is a non-profit educational program representing the private component of a public-private partnership with the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and other government and public health entities. The core purpose of ...

You can now find many types of produce available year round, but most fruits and veggies peak in different seasons. In the fall look for a fresh crop of apples as well as pumpkins, figs, mushrooms, pears, sweet potatoes and other delicious winter squash varieties. In the w...

½ cup (4 ounces) of any 100% juice will count as a serving of fruit. With so many “juice drinks” or “juice beverages” on the market, be sure to check the label for the words “100% juice”. The American Academy of Pediat...

You can now find almost any type of produce year round, but most fruits and veggies peak in different seasons. In the fall look for a fresh crop of apples as well as pumpkins, figs, mushrooms, pears, sweet potatoes and other delicious winter squash varieties. In the winter...

It is usually a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the crunch of a raw veggie, while others prefer cooked veggies with a softer texture. Cooking can reduce some nutrient content, but it can also make some nutrients more available to the body. Raw...

Red meat has a much higher saturated fat content than nuts and it also contains cholesterol. Eating a diet which is high in saturated fat and dietary cholesterol has been associated with certain chronic illnesses including heart disease. Nuts, on the other hand, are ...

In the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the recommendation for intake of fruits and vegetables for adult women who are maintaining their weight and are moderately active (about 30-60 minutes of activity/day) is about 4.5-5 cups total per day. A general guideline is about 1.5...

Most children do not consume the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables everyday. Fruits and vegetables are packed with a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients such as anti-oxidants that growing children need. And establishing good eating habi...

It is hard to say without knowing the height, weight, gender, and activity level of your child, in addition to what else your child eats throughout the day. However, more emphasis is being placed on large portion sizes as a contributor to overweight and obesity. The ...

Association of these symptoms with consumption of raw vegetables and fruits is rare. A larger number of people may have a food intolerance or allergy to nuts, and specifically peanuts. It would be advisable for you and your brother to consult your physician or an all...

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and serves several important functions for us. The most commonly known role is that of supporting bone health. Other lesser known roles include aiding muscle contraction, blood vessel function and nerve fun...

Fruits and vegetables do contain natural sugars. Perhaps the best resource with a fairly comprehensive list would be the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The following link will take you to a publication entitled: “USDA Database for the Added ...

Because of their water content, fresh oranges do not freeze well. The water in the orange slices would crystallize during freezing and damage the delicate tissues. I recommend wrapping the orange slices in a very damp (almost wet) paper towel and placing them in a large zi...

Without knowing the recipe or specific ingredients that were used, I could only guess, and that is beyond our scope here. A basic cookbook or a web site search might contain tips for making tarts and how to prevent potential problems.
...

In a cooking sense, tomatoes are a vegetable. Botanically, they are a fruit because of the part of the plant that they are.
Believe it or not, there was an actual ruling on this issue in 1883 by the Supreme Court. Part of that ruling clarifies this matter:
&l...

There are so many fun fruit and veggie activities to do with preschoolers! They love to help create their own snacks. A few “non-cooking” activities you could try are making a trail mix or funny faces with fruits and vegetables.
For the tra...

There is not a specific recommendation for consumption of cruciferous vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables are chock full of nutrients that are important for a health. They also contain a variety of phytochemicals that potentially have important health benefits.&...

In consulting with our nutrition experts here, we know of no scientific evidence indicating that carrots must be cooked in order to absorb the nutrients they contain. It is true that cooking can reduce some nutrient content in foods, but it can also make some nutrien...

Blue corn chips do not count as a vegetable (but the salsa you might dip them into does!). They are made from blue corn, which is actually a grain, not a vegetable. There are many different forms of corn – blue corn, maize, popcorn, sweet corn, to name a ...

We often hear of dietary supplements that promise the nutritional equivalent of whole foods such as fruits and vegetables in a tiny, little pill. The truth is…claims like this are just not true. Science is good, but not as good as mother nature! Th...

The Canned Food Alliance has a website – www.mealtime.org – that explains how to read the codes on the can that indicate the expiration date, as well as guidelines for the shelf life of canned foods. The information can be found under Nutrition and Health...

The way you plan to serve them determines how they should be prepared. Artichoke hearts can be braised, steamed, marinated, roasted or put into pasta dishes. One of the more common ways to prepare whole artichokes is to first cut off the stem, remove the outermost leaves a...

5 a day referred to the total number of daily servings of fruits and vegetables combined that was previously recommended. With the new Dietary Guidelines released in 2005, the recommended numbers of servings of fruits and vegetables has increased and most Americans are not...

With the wide varieties of fruits and vegetables available from all over the world, it is possible to find all types of produce year-round. Remember, fruits and veggies in frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice forms are available all year and are terrific ch...

Fruits and vegetables come in a wide variety of beautiful colors. Eating a variety of colors every day provides the broadest range of nutrients. Different nutrients are associated with different colors-vitamin A with yellow and orange for example. Eating a variety of color...

Research conducted by ACNielsen for Produce for Better Health Foundation in 2004 indicated that about 42% of respondents reported that the recommendation for fruits and vegetables was 5-6 servings per day. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) also conducted a survey of abou...

Raisins are the dried form of grapes, and prunes are dried plums. Although they are two different fruits, their nutrition content is actually remarkably similar in terms of most nutrients. One area that they differ is in fiber content. Five prunes provide 3 gra...

Raisins are classified as a “blue/purple” fruit, and as such they do contain some of the phytonutrients that tend to be found in blue/purple fruits and vegetables, specifically some of the flavonoids. There is not a specific ‘requirement’ for ...

When purchasing fruits and vegetables, remember that all forms count; fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice. On your next trip to the grocery store, try purchasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables you will be able to consume in a few days to reduce the risk ...

One of the best ways to encourage children to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables is to set a good example-make sure you and other care givers are eating them too! And while whole fruits and vegetables are a great way to send them in your child's lunch box, be creative ...

Diets rich in potassium may help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. Many fruits and vegetables are considered dietary sources of potassium, and some are even considered good or excellent sources. Check out our Fruit & Veggie Nutrition section of the webs...

All fruits and vegetables consumed count toward your daily total regardless of if you repeat the same food at a subsequent meal or snack. For example, if you have a cup of salad at lunch and 2 cups of salad at dinner, that gives you 3 cups—doesn’t matter ...

With the wide varieties of fruits and vegetables available from all over the world, it is possible to find all types of produce year-round. Remember that frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juices are available all year and are terrific choices. Here is a brief listing of prod...

Hi, Mckenzie. The answer to your question is very simple – Any and all of them! Variety is the key to choosing fruits and veggies. Choosing a wide variety will provide you with a wide range of different nutrients that work together for health. As a guide ...

Apples themselves make a great dessert because they are naturally sweet and juicy! For a two year old, however, a whole apple with peel still presents a choking hazard. If your child loves apples and oatmeal, try an apple crumble type dessert. Peel and slice an apple. Mix ...

Recommendations for fruit and vegetable intake have changed over time as new scientific literature is published about the relationship of eating fruits and vegetables to health. There are a number of recent studies suggesting that the current recommendations are asso...

A serving size for an adult is generally ½ cup. The serving size for a child depends on the child’s age and can be anywhere from a few tablespoons (for infants) to a half cup.
The total amount of fruits and vegetables needed every day will vary based on sex,...

Spaghetti squash is a “winter” vegetable. You ask whether it’s a “starchy” veggie; do you mean are there a lot of carbohydrates or a lot of calories? Generally, more “watery” vegetables have both fewer carbohydrates and...

Fresh mushrooms are best used within a few days of purchase. If they must be frozen, first sauté them with little to no fat (if using a non-stick skillet), let them cool slightly, then place the cooked mushrooms in an air-tight container and place in the freezer.&nb...

A smoothie is a great way to include fruit in your diet. As a 28 year old male who is moderately to very active, you need approximately 10-13 servings or 5-6 1/2 cups total of fruits and vegetables per day. Of that amount, about 2 to 3 cups should be from fruit...

The recommendation for fruit intake for most adult women who are moderately active would be about 2-2 ½ cups per day; for moderately active adult men it is about 2 ½ to 3 cups per day. It is only detrimental to eat more if the fruit is replacing other nutriti...

It is easy to get confused. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, the term “vegetable” is generally defined as all plant life or plant products (vegetable matter), more specifically, the edible portion of herbaceous plants (roots, stems, leaves, flowe...

Juicing is definitely another way to get more fruits and vegetables into your diet. As you point out however, the pulp is not in the juice, so you will be missing out on fiber. Because of this, I would caution you not to strive for all or most of your vegetable...

Nutritionally speaking, there is not much difference between fresh, frozen and canned because fruits and vegetables are processed close to the fields where they are harvested, so the nutrients are "locked in" at the time of harvest. If during processing the fruit...

Lycopene and anthocyanins are among the thousands of phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables. Lycopene may help to decrease risk for heart disease and some cancers; it has been specifically associated with prevention of prostate cancer. Anthocyanins are a...

It depends on how you intend to use the fruits. Since you are dealing with a large group of people, it is easier to consider the amounts needed in terms of weight rather than individual pieces for grapes and strawberries. Because a significant portion of the weight of...

Treatment of constipation is individual. Meeting your daily recommendation for fruits and vegetables is a good first step: 3 ½ - 4 ½ cups per day for moderately active adult females; 4 ½ -5 cups per day for moderately active males. General ...

Vitamin C helps heal cuts and wounds and keep teeth and gums healthy. Many fruits and vegetables are considered dietary sources of vitamin C, and some are even considered good or excellent sources. Check out our Fruit & Veggie Nutrition section of the websi...

It’s great that you include fruits and vegetables in your meals. Keep up the good work! For weight loss, I suggest that you consult one of the reputable commercial weight loss programs such as Weight Watchers or a registered dietitian. You can locat...

Eating a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables is one factor that may contribute to skin health. If you are concerned about your skin and your feelings of tiredness, it would be advisable for you to consult a physician.
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Eating the recommended amounts of fruits and veggies is easy since all product forms count: fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice. This page on our website will give you many examples of how much a cup or half cup of fruits and veggies actually is—check i...

Recommendations for fruit and vegetable intake have changed over time as new scientific literature is published about the relationship of eating fruits and vegetables to health. There are a number of recent studies suggesting that the current recommendations are asso...

One of the more common ways to prepare whole artichokes is to first cut off the stem, remove the outermost leaves and trim the sharp barbs off the ends of the remaining leaves with scissors; open the flower and spread the leaves out. Cook them in boiling water; you can add...

It is absolutely fine to combine meat, fruit and vegetables in one meal. Part of the enjoyment of a meal is the combination of flavors and textures that different foods provide. In some cases, absorption of nutrients may be improved by eating different foods to...

There is quite a significant difference in the nutritional needs of children aged 0-5 and again from 5-10. A typical portion size is 1/2 cup of a fruit or vegetable or 4 ounces of 100% juice. These amounts would be fine for most children aged 5-10. For children ...

Recommendations for intake of fruits and vegetables include eating a variety of both. Using color as a guide is a good way to help achieve variety in the diet. Moderately active women should consume 3 ½ to 4 ½ cups total of fruits and vegetables p...

Some fruits and vegetables such as apples, potatoes and some squashes can be stored for extended periods of time in a cool, dark place. When storing these items, it is best to keep them in a sturdy, ventilated container such as a woven basket. (Plastic containers would tra...

I’m wondering if by asking this that you want to know if there are a lot of calories associated with squash? Most summer squash, including zucchini, and the winter spaghetti squash are lower in carbs than say other winter squash such as acorn or butternut.&nbsp...

Frozen vegetables that thaw may be re-frozen provided that they have not completely thawed, unless the vegetables are in a cream sauce or are part of a meat dish or frozen dinner. In those cases, it is best to disposed of those partially thawed items. Check to see if...

Fruits and vegetables are a nutritious and colorful part of every meal, and they are convenient and delicious for snacks. Recommendations for fruits and vegetables have increased: most moderately active men should eat about 5 to 6 cups per day, and most moderately ac...

We did some checking and talked to some “fig experts.” They were not aware of any domestic companies that still can Kadota figs in a jar. Back in the “old days,” Del Monte used to can Kadota figs in a jar. Today, Kadota figs are pa...

To freeze strawberries, wash, dry and hull the berries. Spread the berries on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or some other non-stick surface. Place in the refrigerator until chilled through (45 minutes to 1 hour.) Then place chilled berries in the freezer until ...

The recommendation for fruit intake for most adult women who are moderately active would be about 2 to 2½ cups per day; and for moderately active adult men it is about 2½ to 3 cups per day. It is only detrimental to eat more if the fruit is replac...

What a delicious problem to have—too many sweet potatoes!
For freezing sweet potatoes, information obtained from the Cooperative Extension Service at the
University
of
Georgia
suggests first cooking them until almost tender (either by s...

Assembling this summer-time favorite is easy. Prepare the individual items by washing and cutting them as appropriate. If using bamboo skewers, soak in water prior to placing the vegetables on them to prevent charring of the skewers. If using metal skewers, brush with a sm...

Getting pre-teens and teenagers to eat healthy foods can sometimes be a challenge! First and foremost-set a good example. If your 11 year old sees that the rest of the family (especially parents) are eating fruits and vegetables, they will be more likely to eat them as wel...

All fruits and vegetables will provide energy. They are also filling, which will help to prevent feelings of hunger for a longer period. For sustained energy throughout the afternoon, your best bet is to consume a well-balanced lunch that includes 1-2 cups of f...

Most fresh vegetables are best blanched (cooked for a very short time with boiling water or hot steam) then frozen, to help preserve freshness. Once the vegetables are blanched, they need to be cooled quickly, as in an ice-water bath then packed in an appropriate container...

It is best to store bananas at room temperature away from ethylene producing fruits and vegetables. Ethylene is a type of naturally occurring ripening gas produced as some fruits and vegetables mature and will hasten the ripening of bananas as well as other fruits. High et...

A little bit of searching has revealed that pressure cookers seem to be making a comeback and apparently they’re not like the ones that grandma used. Books are out on the market enlightening those who wish to know the joys of using one, and promoting the fact t...

Recommendations for the amount of fruits and vegetables needed each day is individualized based on age, gender and activity level. Click here to determine the amount that is right for you and your family members.
...

It is best to wash most fruits and vegetables in cold water just before eating. Some exceptions are leaf lettuce which can be rinsed, wrapped in damp paper towels, placed in a plastic bag and refrigerated to preserve crispness. Other fruits, like strawberries, will deterio...

The first step is to avoid the foods that cause these symptoms. It’s possible that it’s specific types of fruit that cause the allergies, rather than all fruits. An allergist or physician may be able to help identify what foods are causing the sympt...

Though there are probably hundreds of varieties of lettuces, they all basically can be categorized into 5 main categories: butterhead, crisphead (Iceberg), looseleaf, Romaine (Cos) and stem.
Butterhead lettuces include
Boston
and Bibb.&...

Yes, potatoes are a vegetable. They are the tuber of the potato plant. Potatoes are high in vitamin C and a good source of potassium. While many potatoes are eaten as french fries, we suggested that you bake, boil, microwave, or oven roast them instead of frying. For more ...

Yes, potatoes are a vegetable. They are the tuber of the potato plant. Potatoes are high in vitamin C and a good source of potassium. While many potatoes are eaten as french fries, we suggested that you bake, boil, microwave, or oven roast them instead of frying. For more ...

Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories. What gets added to them, however, adds most of the calories (such as oils, butters, creamy sauces, sugar, etc.). To make the most of fruit and vegetables low-calorie goodness, eat fresh, canned & frozen ...

Fruits and veggies do contain some calories, and should be counted as part of your total daily intake. You will see, however, that most fruits and veggies are relatively low in calories compared to other foods so you can eat more of them, cup for cup. In additi...

No specific fruit can help you lose weight or lower your blood pressure, but substituting fruits for other foods that are higher in calories and sodium may help. For specific nutrition information, contact the American Dietetic Association for a registered dietitian in you...

The easiest way to eat a papaya is to eat it like a melon; slice the fruit, scoop out the seeds and discard the peel. Papaya can also be used in many different types of fruit salads. I prefer to squeeze a lime over it and eat it as is!
For more tips on creative wa...

The nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables can be obtained from all of the edible parts—this would include the skin or peel as appropriate. Fruits and vegetables are generally good sources of many vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals (natural pla...

One medium beet (~3 ½ ounces) is considered a serving, and that provides 50 calories. Beets are considered low-fat and saturated fat and cholesterol free. They are also a good source of folate, a B-vitamin that when adequate in a healthful diet may reduc...

Getting kids to eat fruits and vegetables can sometimes be a challenge! I have one just like yours and can feel your pain! First and foremost, set a good example. If your child sees that the rest of the family (especially parents) are eating fruits and vegetables, the...

The best approach to weight management is to eat well-balanced meals with foods from 3 or 4 different food groups, including fruits and vegetables. An important component of weight management is to develop good eating habits that you can maintain long-term in o...

Magnesium is a nutrient that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans has highlighted as one of concern due to many people not getting enough of it in their diets. Magnesium is important to us because it supports normal muscle and nerve function, a steady heart rhythm an...

It is best to wash most fruits and vegetables just before eating. Rinsing with clean water is sufficient to wash most fruits and vegetables. Some exceptions are leaf lettuce which can be rinsed, wrapped in damp paper towels, placed in a plastic bag and refrigerated to pres...

The USDA has a database which lists the sugar content of foods, which you can access here. However, there are a number of factors that influence blood sugar levels, and it’s not likely that particular fruits are problematic for blood sugar levels. The Ame...

Since you are eating the fruit leathers without added sugar, they are a good occassional snack once or twice a week. But because they are a very concentrated source of fruit, you need to be sure your son does not eat them as his exclusive choice of fruit. Take strawb...

Five oranges in one day would count towards meeting your daily intake. However, by including a COLORFUL colorful variety of fruits and vegetables each day, you will be getting a wider variety of nutrients. The number of servings recommended per day varies by ag...

Many frozen veggies can be thawed then used as they are without cooking such as peas, carrots, corn, green beans and onions. Other frozen items must be cooked before use such as potato dishes or those that have a sauce. If you are using a bag of frozen mixed vegetables in ...

If you find yourself lacking the time to prepare meals, take advantage of all of the quick options that are available such as frozen and canned items that can be reheated quickly, bags of ready-to-use salad mixes, salad bars and pre-cut items. Remember that all forms of fr...

The general nutrition content of all potatoes is roughly the same. Many people are surprised to find out that they are a good source of both vitamin C and fiber! Potatoes do come in different colors, so their phytochemical make-up will vary because of that.&nbs...

The general nutrition content of all potatoes is roughly the same. Many people are surprised to find out that they are a good source of both vitamin C and fiber! Potatoes do come in different colors, so their phytochemical make-up will vary because of that.&nbs...

Grocery stores spray many vegtables to keep them from dehydrating when exposed to air, like leafy green and other vegetables without a thick skin. You'll notice that berries and grapes, for example, are not sprayed - they have a natural "bloom" (a light waxy coat...

The amount of fruits and vegetables you need each day depends not only on your age, but your gender and activity level as well. A 15 year old moderately active girl needs to eat 4-1/2 cups of fruits and vegetables throughout the day. A boy the same age and acti...

With a bountiful summer crop of zucchini right around the corner I’m glad you asked that. Zucchini is a type of summer squash, and summer squash are generally known to be excellent sources of vitamin C. This nutrient helps heal cuts and wounds and k...

Our website allows you to search for fruits and veggies that are excellent or good sources of several key nutrients. Click here to see the list for vitamin A. Plant foods high in iron include dark leafy greens such as spinach, dry beans like white or winged bea...

Wash and drain the trimmed berries in a colander to remove as much water as possible. Dry them by patting carefully with a paper towel. Then spread the berries on a large baking sheet to make one layer, and place in freezer until berries are frozen. If your fre...

The weight for any fruit or vegetable is based on the edible portion only. So, 126 grams of edible portion of banana is 110 calories. Check out our fruit and veggie database to see the specific information for bananas.
...

Table sugar comes from sugar cane or sugar beets. Molasses comes from refining sugar cane or sugar beets. Brown sugar is simply white sugar whtat isn't as refined and still contains the molasses. This gives it its distinctive color and soft texture. Both are classifie...

Nutrients do start to degrade after harvest, but this can be minimized by proper storage or processing. Frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice products are processed just after harvesting to "lock-in" the freshness of just picked produce. Fresh fruits and vegetable...

All fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients. Some, such as berries and plums for example, have very high antioxidant activity. However, there are other actions of phytonutrients that make them important for health. For example, dark green leafy veget...

It depends on what you mean by "transport". Most fruits and vegetables can travel safely from the grocery store to your home, provided they are stored properly once you get them home. If you are planning to travel for longer distances, just keep food safety in mi...

Calcium is not the first nutrient I think of when I think about fruits and vegetables, so you’re not likely to be getting excess amounts of it from this source. That said, various greens (spinach, collard, turnip, kale, beet, etc.) and beans (white beans, cowpe...

The recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables are based on a person's sex, age and physical activity level. To find out how many fruits and vegetables you need each day, click here. It is important to eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables everyday for good he...

Calcium is an important mineral that is essential for healthy bones. The following vegetables are considered dietary sources of calcium: spinach, collard greens, turnip greens, kale, white beans, okra, soybeans, beet greens and Chinese cabbage. Be aware t...

I would suggest that you consult with a registered dietitian (RD) who can evaluate your dietary intake and make recommendations based on your specific needs. You can locate an RD in your area at www.eatright.org.
...

There are no good and bad foods when it comes to fruits. While they vary in nutrient content, they all provide vitamins, minerals and fiber which are essential for a healthy diet. It's good to eat a variety of them to assure you're getting all of the vairous nutrients&nbsp...

Frozen vegetables are typically processed just after harvest, so their nutrients are "locked in" at the peak of freshness. The same holds true for canned vegetables. Fresh fruits and vegetables are best when consumed while they are still fresh and not wilted. Alm...

It is a myth that bananas shouldn’t be consumed when trying to lose weight. This myth may be related to the fact that bananas have a little more starch and less water than other fruits. However, bananas are still a delicious, low calorie food to include as part...

Some fruits and vegetables produce ethylene gas, a natural gas that is produced when fruits and vegetables ripen. When you place an ethylene producing fruit or vegetable next to a fruit or vegetable that is sensitive to ethylene gas, they may ripen too quickly. Some high e...

The CACFP (child and adult care food program) is a U.S. Department of Agriculture sponsored program for child and adult day care. More information on standards and policies for this program can be viewed here. ...

Eating the whole lemon rind and all will give you 5g fiber as opposed to juice and pulp which is about 1 gram of fiber. The vitamins will be essentially the same. There are many ways to include fiber in your diet though that may have more taste appeal. Remember to think wh...

It sounds like you are certainly getting your fruits and veggies! It’s great that you enjoy so many different kinds. It is unlikely that you will reach toxic intake of vitamins and nutrients through consumption of whole foods. You need to be c...

Unripe bananas are best stored at room temperature. Once ripe, bananas may be stored in the refrigerator for several days, but doing so may cause the peel to turn black. For more storage and selection tips, click here.
...

‘5 A Day’ was the program that preceded Fruits & Veggies – More Matters. Its purpose was to promote the consumption of fruits and vegetables by making the public aware that at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables were recommended a day for ...

Avocados become brown when exposed to air due to a process called oxidation. To prevent this, cut the avocado open just before using it. Sprinkling a small amount of lemon or lime juice will help to delay the browning. If you are not able to eat the whole avocado at ...

Corn chips do not count as a vegetable (but the salsa you might dip them into does!). They are made from a variety of corn that is actually a grain, not a vegetable. There are many different forms of corn – blue corn, maize, popcorn, sweet corn, to name a...

Cooking times for all potatoes, including sweet potatoes will vary depending on the size of the potato. Generally, they are baked in the oven at 350 degrees, and a medium potato (about 3 inches long) will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You can test for donene...

Some fruits and vegetables do not benefit from being stored in plastic bags as they produce ethylene gas, a natural gas that is produced when fruits and vegetables ripen. For more information on selection and storage, click here.
...

A quick way to tell the difference is zucchini has a stem on the end and has ridges along the outside. Cucumbers tend to be smooth on the outside with a "waxy" feel. For more information on selection and storage, click here.
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For many juices, the nutritional information available on a label of a commercial juice would give you an idea of the specific nutritional content. You could also look up the amounts of the exact fruits and vegetables that you are juicing to get an approximate value ...

Dehydrating fruits removes only the water and retains all the important nutrients. Dried fruit is a great way to get more fruit in your diet. It is easy to pack and carry. Just keep an eye on the calories as they are higher in calories ounce by ounce then the fresh version...

Prevention and treatment of constipation is individual, and it generally involves a more comprehensive approach to diet rather than focusing on one particular type of food. All fruits do contain fiber and are one component of a healthy dietary approach to preventing and tr...

It is recommended that you wash cauliflower thoroughly, cut into pieces and blanch in boiling salted water for about 3 minutes. Remove and drain, let cool and dry the vegetable. Then you can place the cauliflower into plastic storage bags and freeze.
Not all v...

Eating an assortment of different fruits and vegetables can act as a natural diuretic. Fruits and veggies are high in fiber and help move things through your system. Those that are high in potassium and calcium may be more beneficial such as beans, apricots bananas and man...

It’s better to wash the raspberries just before freezing as when they are thawed they will not hold their shape. The berries are best used for baking, pureeing or smoothies. To freeze them, simply wash and dry them by rolloing them gently on a paper towel, then ...

There is a great children’s book that is called Eating the Alphabet by Lois Ehlert. It will give you exactly the information you are looking for. It can be purchased from our website by clicking here.
...

The colors of fruits and vegetables may help signify that they are filled with nutrients that are good for you, but not each similar color contains the same nutrients. For example, fruits and veggies high in Vitamin A are carrots, cantaloupe, spinach and lettuce. For optim...

Fruits and vegetables don’t contain digestive enzymes but do aid in digestion and keeping your body healthy. Look for fruits and vegetables that are bursting with fiber such as apples, beans, blackberries, lentils spinach, pears and many more. Fiber will help food mo...

There are 1.4 grams of fiber in one half of a grapefruit. It is the same for all the different colors of grapefruits. Grapefruits are an excellent source of Vitamin C. The difference in nutrient content is seen in the amount of vitamin A. The ruby red grapefruit has 35% of...

According to the U.S. Apple Association there are over 100 varieties grown commercially in the
, but about 15 of them make up 90% of sales. The top ten are Red and Golden delicious, Granny Smith, Fuji, Macintosh, Gala,
Rome
, Jonathan Idared and Empire. For more infor...

You don’t have to eat your veggies raw to become healthier. Cooked vegetables have many nutrients and vitamins, just like raw. There are many different ways to cook your veggies. They can be roasted, which brings out their natural sweetness, or they can be steamed, w...

The dragon fruit was originally grown in
Central America
and now being grown commercially. It is a member of the cactus family. It is eaten by cutting open and scooping out the flesh, which has a mildly sweet flavor and texture similar to that of a kiwi. For about 3-1/2 ...

Combining fruits for smoothies is really a matter of personal preference. There is no evidence that combining them makes it harder on your stomach. There is also no evidence that if you eat the fruits separately it doesn’t help with losing weight. Smoothi...

It can be confusing, since botanically tomatoes are a fruit, but the way we use them in our food they are considered a vegetable! To see a list of what is a fruit and what is a vegetable, click here to query the USDA’s food nutrient database.
...

High purine foods are primarily animal-based foods such as game meats, liver, beef kidneys, brains, and some fish such as anchovies, sardines, herring and scallops. There are some vegetables that have a moderate amount of purine such as asparagus, cauliflower, spinach, mus...

Both forms of vegetables have similar nutritional content. When cooking your vegetables steaming in a small amount of water will preserve any of the water soluble vitamins. This is true for both fresh and frozen vegetables.
...

Ethylene is a gas that is produced as some fruits ripen. If you mix them, those that are sensitive to ethylene may become soft or mealy. Keeping them separate will help to prevent this. In general, it is fruits that produce ethylene, and veggies that are ...

Storing fruits and veggies properly will help to maintain color and crispness. You can find storage tips here. Generally, produce should not be washed until it is to be used. Lettuce should be drained well after washing. Using a salad spinner or gen...

Fruits and vegetables are effective for weight loss as part of a total program that includes calorie control using a well-balanced diet. Substituting fruits and vegetables for high calorie, low nutrient foods is a great way to see a reduction in your weight. The Food Guide...

During pregnancy it is important to eat a healthy diet which can sometimes be difficult with a queasy stomach. I found that I craved healthy foods when I was pregnant, but various smells or tastes can be nauseating -- it all depends on the person. If you keep in mind...

Anytime is the right time of day to drink or eat fruits and veggies. Be sure to eat your veggies too as some of the fiber will be lost when juicing. Your body digests food the same way in the morning as it does at night.
...

The previous recommendation was 5 – 9 servings a day, but they were increased in the 2005 Dietary Guidelines as science suggests that intake of fruits and veggies is associated with good health. In order to clear up confusion about exactly how much is a serving; the ...

All fruits should be part of a healthy diet. Try to eat a wide variety of different fruits and vegetables for optimum health. Fructose is the sugar that occurs naturally in fruits and is used very differently by the body than white sugar. Fructose is broken down more...

The amount of fruits and veggies you need is different depending on your gender, age and amount of physical activity. To find out the recommended number of cups for everyone in your family click here.
...

Do not wash the dill until you are ready to use it. Spritz whole stems lightly with a fine spray of water, wrap loosely in paper towels, and place in a plastic bag. Store in the vegetable bin of your refrigerator. It should last up to a week. Fresh dill sprigs can be froze...

Edamame is another name for soybean. They are an excellent source of protein and also contain iron, vitamin A and vitamin C. Edamame can be eaten as a snack or tossed into salads, stir frys or soups. You can find edamame either fresh in the produce department or frozen. If...

Steaming or roasting vegetables are both great ways to enjoy the bounty from your garden. Water soluble vitamins can leach into the cooking water when vegetables are boiled. Therefore steaming is a better alternative. The less water used in cooking vegetables the more nutr...

No, absolutely not true! When fruits and veggies are picked they do begin to lose a small amount of vitamins and minerals but it is a negligible amount. The first choice is to buy fruits and veggies as soon after harvest as you can. Most produce in your supermarket is fres...

Cooked vegetables may lose some nutrients in the cooking process. Using as little water as possible when cooking will help retain the water soluble vitamins. There are certain veggies, such as tomatoes which when cooked make lycopene more available. Lycopene is an antioxid...

Your body uses carbohydrates for fuel so it’s important to eat them. Fruits and vegetables are a healthy source of carbohydrates as well as foods made from whole grains. It is recommended that you eat a variety of different fruits and vegetables every day as each fru...

The previous recommendation was 5 – 9 servings a day, but they were increased in the 2005 Dietary Guidelines as science suggests that intake of fruits and veggies is associated with good health. In order to clear up confusion about exactly how much is a serving; the ...

Fruits and veggies eaten any time are loaded with nutrients that help to keep you healthy. What's most important is that you eat them every day. Fruits and vegetables wouldn't be harvested unless they were "in season" so if they are in your produce department, ...

Canning is a great way to preserve summer’s bounty for the winter. There are procedures you need to follow to make sure the food is safe to eat. There are many books available and information on the website that can give you explicit instructions. Click here for more...

It is recommended that you wash cauliflower thoroughly, cut into pieces and blanch in boiling salted water for about 3 minutes. Remove and drain, let cool and dry the vegetable. Then you can place the cauliflower into plastic storage bags and freeze.
...

It is actually spelled "jicama" but pronounced as you have spelled it. Jicama is a root vegetable sometimes called a Mexican potato. It looks similar to a large turnip or radish. It has brown papery skin which is peeled before eating. Jicama has white crisp...

Coconut which has not been processed with sugar added can be part of a healthy diet. For one cup of shredded unprocessed coconut meat there are 283 calories and 26 grams of fat. Although it is an excellent source of fiber with 7 grams per one cup, you would want to be judi...

Broccoli should be dark green and have firm stalks with no open flowering or discolored bud clusters. It should be odorless. Usually it can be stored in the crisper drawer in your fridge for about 3 -5 days.
...

All vegetables lose some nutrients through the cooking process. Water soluble vitamins tend to leach out into the cooking water, so using as little water a possible is recommended. Steaming or microwaving are good methods.
...

Vegetables lose some vitamins due to any cooking method. To minimize the loss, steaming or microwaving is preferred. Water soluble vitamins are lost more easily into the cooking water so any method using less water is recommended. Also cook vegetables for as short a time a...

Buying organic is a matter of personal preference. It is always a good idea to buy in season and local when possible to ensure getting your fruits and veggies at their very best peak of ripeness and flavor. All fruits and veggies contain many vitamins, minerals and nutrien...

Unless specified on the label, it is difficult to know how many servings of fruits and veggies are in a shake. If the ingredients listed on the label indicate only fruits or vegetables, or their juices, then 4 oz. would be a serving. However, once other ingredi...

Cooking vegetables breaks down cell walls. This can help make nutrients more available as is the case with tomatoes and carrots, or it can also allow some nutrients that are water soluble to be released into the cooking water. You can minimize nutrient losses by steaming y...

The general rule of thumb when cooking vegetables is to use the least amount of water needed and the least amount of cooking time needed in order to preserve most of the nutrients. Cooking times will vary depending on which vegetable and personal preference. For a chart of...

It is recommended that you blanch okra before freezing. You can do this by immersing in boiling water for 3 to 4 minutes and then cool immediately by soaking in an ice bath. Drain okra and dry. If you intend to use the okra later with breading then you should bread it befo...

A cold temperature cause tomatoes to lose flavor and texture and stops the ripening process. So keep them at room temperature and then use within 2 – 3 days once they are ripe. Of course, once any fruit or vegetable has been cut, it needs to be refrigerated to ...

Eggplant is not suitable for drying or canning. Freezing is the best method for home preservation. Wash and slice eggplant into 1/3 inch thick slices, blanch in boiling water that has some lemon juice added for 4 minutes. Cool, drain and freeze. The lemon juice will help t...

After purchase, rinse lettuce well and dry with paper towels. Refrigerate in plastic bag up to 1 week. For broccoli, refrigerate it and use it within 3-5 days. For information on storage of different fruits and vegetables, check out our website here. &nbsp...

We do not carry a recipe at this time. However, a quick search on www.yahoo.com brought up numerous sites with a variety of different recipes that looked delicious. See which meets your preference. You might also want to contact the California Fig Advisor...

Blood sugar responses to different foods will vary depending on time of day, composition of the meal, activity and other factors as well. The fiber in whole fruit may help slow the response to the sugar that is in the fruit, but it can be very individual. I enc...

Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a well-balanced diet that also includes protein foods like chicken, fish and meat, whole grains such as brown rice, whole grain cereals and breads and dairy products. At www.mypyramid.gov, you can find out more about how...

peppers are a vegetable. However, most chile peppers are not eaten in a quantity to provide a full serving because they are too hot and spicy. They are used primarily for seasoning. Some milder chile peppers, such as poblano peppers, can be consumed i...

Our site does not contain a recipe for fried green tomatoes. However, a quick internet search turned up many sites that have recipes for fried green tomatoes. In general, you dip tomato slices into flour, then beaten eggs, and then either cornmeal or bread crumb...

It is fine to include all fruits on a diabetic diet with consideration of portions and total carbohydrate content of the meal or snack as well as medication that you may be taking for diabetes. Blood sugar responses to fruits and other foods with carbohydrate are ver...

You can locate some free, downloadable materials for kids on this site. Posters and other materials for kids are also available through our online catalog. You can also locate some downloadable materials for kids at www.mypyramid.gov, under the My Pyramid for K...

Bananas and beets or beetroots definitely count towards meeting recommendations for fruit and vegetable intake. Both contain important vitamins and minerals as well as fiber. To see more about the nutritional content of bananas, click here. Beets are not ...

Tomatoes and carrots contain phytochemicals called carotenoids, which have antioxidant functions. The primary carotenoid in tomatoes is lycopene, and in carrots, it is beta-carotene. It is true that cooking will enhance the absorption of each, particularly in t...

Congratulations on your great efforts to feed your family well. The length of time that fruit salads, veggie mixes and other prepared produce items last in the refrigerator will vary somewhat depending on which items the salads contain. Some fruits and vegetabl...

The exact cause of acne is unknown, it is believed to result from several related factors. One of those factors is the hormonal changes that occur during puberty, around the menstrual period, or during pregnancy. Heredity also seems to be an important factor. S...

The following "vegetables" are really fruits in the botanical sense: tomatoes, okra, squash, cucumbers, bean & pea pods, peppers and eggplant. Even a corn grain is technically a fruit because each grain develops from a separate seed-bearing ovary with a...

In a cooking sense, tomatoes are a vegetable. Botanically, they are a fruit because of the part of the plant that they are.
Believe it or not, there was an actual ruling on this issue in 1883 by the Supreme Court. Part of that ruling clarifies this m...

All juices have different nutritional benefits in terms of specific vitamins and minerals that they may provide – the important thing is to consume 100% juice, not juice drinks which contain very little juice. Also, look for low sodium tomato and vegetable juic...

The ‘Dietary Guidelines for Americans’ provides recommendations for choosing healthful foods. You can access information for incorporating the guidelines into your lifestyle here. Click here to learn about the importance of one of the guidelines &nd...

The best guideline for determining if you are getting enough or too many calories is your weight. If you are losing weight and are not trying to do so, your calorie intake may need to be increased. Likewise, if you are gaining weight and are not trying to do so...

The fat content in fruits is negligible. One exception is avocados, which do contain more fat than other fruits. The fat in avocados is primarily mono-unsaturated fat, which is associated with a heart healthy diet. You can view the nutrition content of so...

Fruit naturally contains sugar, and the amounts in different fruits will vary depending on the fruit and stage of ripeness. You can see the total carbohydrate content of different fruits and how much of that is from sugar here.
...

Juice Plus is not recommended as an effective supplement to the diet. For optimal nutritional benefit, your best bet is to consume the recommended number of servings of fruits and vegetables in fresh, canned, frozen, dried or 100% juice form each day. You can s...

The calorie content of peaches will vary depending on the size of the peach. One medium peach has about 60 calories. To see more about the nutritional content of peaches and other fruits and vegetables here.
...

Regarding potatoes, ideally you should keep them out of the refrigerator. They should be stored in a cool, dark, well ventilated place for use within 3-5 weeks. Cold temperatures can turn the starch in potatoes to sugar and may darken the flesh when the potatoes are ...

As a plant, cucumbers are considered to be a fruit because of how they grow. But when we cook and eat plant foods, fruits are considered to be those plants that taste sweet and veggies are considered to be those plants that tend not to be sweet. Since cucumbers...

General guidelines for preventing and treating constipation include:
Eat a variety of both fruits and vegetables and meet recommendations for intake: 3 ½ - 4 ½ cups per day for moderately active adult females; 4 ½ -5 cups per day for m...

The watermelon rind often provides clues to its ripeness. Look the watermelon over. You are looking for a firm, symmetrical watermelon that is free from bruises, cuts or dents. A smooth rind usually indicates a good fruit. A ripe watermelon will be faded on the top, ...

The message to “eat your colors” is about VARIETY. Fruits and vegetables come in all colors. Each also contains different amounts of vitamins and minerals. Including a variety of colors adds interest to your plate and helps to assure that you ...

English peas are a vegetable, but they do contain starch. The primary source of energy in vegetables is from starch, but since most vegetables have a high water and fiber content, the amount of starch in a serving tends to be much lower than other sources of starch, ...

Dates are a dried fruit, and the calorie content of all dried fruits will be higher than the same amount of fresh fruit because they don’t contain as much water. That said, dates are still a healthy choice for snacks and for use in recipes. One serving wo...

Generally, larger supermarkets or supermarkets located near ethnic neighborhoods, especially Asian and Latino, will be more likely to carry more unusual produce items. Additionally, you will be more likely to find these items when they are in season. Chayote squash is beco...

Pickles are made from cucumbers and would be considered a vegetable. Keep in mind that they do have a high sodium content, and should be included in the diet prudently. The same goes for sweet pickles, which have a high sugar content.
...

The most important thing is to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. All forms – fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and juice have substantial nutritional value. Cooked vegetables may lose some nutrients in the cooking process. Using as little water as possi...

You do not lose nutritional benefits of whole fruit when it is blended into a smoothie using a blender. When fruits are juiced using a juicer, some fiber may be lost, depending on the juicer. Get some new ideas for smoothies here....

One ear of corn has about 90 calories, and provides modest amounts of fiber, Vitamin C, and potassium. It also appears that corn contains other plant compounds, called phytochemicals, which may have important health benefits. ...

How many fruits and vegetables adults and children should eat every day depends on their age, sex and activity level. Younger children need less than older ones. Men and boys generally need more than women and girls. Being more active increases the amount you should eat. T...

Potatoes are a good staple food. They are a good source of Vitamin C and Potassium, fat- free and contain some fiber. Eaten without the skin, they are quickly and easily digested. With the skin, the fiber slows digestion so nutrients are absorbed more slowly. This is bette...

Cut up fresh vegetables can be stored in an air-tight container. To maintain freshness and nutrition, try to cut up only the amount you will need for the day. Or, If you're like me, I cut some up over the weekend when I have more time so that they are ready for the h...

There is not one specific substitute for legumes. Consuming a variety of other fruits and vegetables will give you most of the same health benefits of consuming legumes in terms of vitamins, minerals, fiber and other healthful substances like phytochemicals. ...

The best way to store fresh garlic is in a cool, dry, dark place, and it will keep for a long time. Garlic stored in the refrigerator tends to sprout and may become bitter. There are special, decorative containers for storing garlic, but it can also be kept in ...

Individual fruits and vegetables contain different levels of various nutrients. Consuming all recommended servings as one item would limit the nutritional benefits of eating fruits and vegetables, not to mention that it would likely become boring very quickly. The recommen...

Foods that have a high content of citric acid are citrus fruits – oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, lemons, limes. It is also sometimes used as a preservative and flavoring in foods and beverages, so read the label to see if it is contained in the food.
...

Yes, spaghetti squash freezes well. Cook the squash, remove the spaghetti like strands, and freeze in freezer bags. Varieties of winter squash freeze well also. They should also be cooked, then cubed before placing in freezer bags....

It’s probably better for you to discard the frozen fruit and juice. You don’t know what the freezing conditions have been over that length of time. Some degradation of the food does occur even when it is frozen, which would likely affect the finished product of...

Research has shown that when fruits and vegetables are included in a dietary plan with reduction in calories and fat, weight loss and weight maintenance are more consistent. One of the benefits of fruits and vegetables in the diet is that most are low in calories, and have...

Folate is important in reactions involving metabolism of amino acids and synthesis of DNA, the body’s genetic material. Women of childbearing age need to be sure to obtain adequate amounts of folate to prevent neural tube defects in their offspring, which are a...

Many claims have been made about the health benefits of Noni juice. However, there is very little research to support any of these claims, and most of that research is in animals. Claims that Noni juice will cure cancer are not true. Noni juice should be cons...

Consuming over-ripened fruit should not be a problem for digestion and should not cause an upset stomach. However, consuming fruit that is rotting or fermenting could potentially cause an upset stomach. You would be able to distinguish that a fruit is rotting b...

Recommendations for fruits and vegetables are based on calorie needs for age and activity level. You can view the number of cups recommended for you by clicking here. In terms of volume of food that you consume, a good guideline for meeting recommendations for ...

It is true that harvesting too soon will have an effect on nutritional value. However, given that many other factors such as soil, climate, amount of sunlight, etc. affect the nutritional value, it is not possible to say that there is a scale or relationship between ...

We do not as yet have a recipe for making tomato paste. You can find one by clicking here. Check out recipes on this site for using those homegrown tomatoes in a variety of other ways as well. Enjoy!
...

The nutritional value of fresh fruit will be affected by its age. Harvesting too soon or over-ripening will affect the nutrient content. Many other factors also affect nutrient content of fruit, so it is difficult to know the extent of differences between a har...

One serving of grapes is ½ cup, and there are about 16 grapes in ½ cup. It is not unusual for people to consume more than one serving of a particular fruit or vegetable at one time or in one day. Consuming a variety of different fruits and vegetab...

Our mothers were right when they told us to eat our fruits and vegetables. They are full of important vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they are high in fiber and water, which makes them helpful as part of a weight management program because they are filling.&nbsp...

An internet search and search of the USDA database did not turn up any results on nutritional information about black or purple carrots. I suggest you contact the Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center at Texas A & M University at www.vfic.tamu.edu . They m...

People who preserve fresh vegetables by canning at home
us
e glass jars for that purpose. They are processed in a specific way
us
ing a hot water bath or pressure cooker in order to be stored safely at room temperature.
You can store cooked vegetables in ...

Spinach is fat free, low in calories and an excellent source of fiber, folate, vitamin C, and vitamin A. It is a good source of magnesium and iron. It can be eaten raw or cooked and added to salads, casseroles and soups to increase nutrient content. You can find healthy re...

The best way to store the green tomato is on the countertop away from direct sunlight, with the stem end up. For the best taste you should use the tomato within 1 week once ripe. The tomato may keep a little longer depending on how ripe the tomato was when it was pic...

When total fat is listed on the label, it is the total fat for the serving size that is indicated on the label, including sauce. All of the nutrition information on the label is for a specific serving size, which is indicated on the label, and it refers to all contents of...

Pickles are the cooked vegetable, preserved with vinegar and salt. They contain all of the fiber, and most of the minerals and vitamins that were in the fresh vegetable. Unfortunately most are high in salt which raises blood pressure in many people. For this reason they sh...

Kiwifruit does not work well in gelatins, due to an enzyme, Actinidin, which breaks down collagen. This same enzyme also makes it a great tenderizer for meat. You may want to briefly cook the fruit to deactivate the enzyme. This may allow the kiwifruit to gel better....

All veggies are appropriate to include in a diet for diabetes. Some veggies have more carbohydrate than others, such as potatoes, peas and corn. Depending on how you are managing your diet, you will need to account for including them in your diet – eit...

All fruits contain sugar in varying amounts naturally, primarily in the form of fructose. Per serving, the amount of sugar is relatively small compared to an equal volume of a food that has added sugar. Fruits (and veggies) also provide fiber, vitamins and m...

First, you should trim off leaves of the cauliflower and cut the heads into pieces about 1 inch across. You should then blanch the cauliflower by lowering them into boiling water or steam for 3- 4 minutes and then quickly cooling the cauliflower before freezing it. B...

We have a wonderful book on this http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org website titled Vegetables from Amaranth to Zucchini. Look here to see the book on the on-line catalog. It is loaded with history, etymology, selection, and storage information about veg...

Each fruit is unique, and you have to look for different things depending on what you are selecting. Look here to find the selection tips you are looking for selected fruits and vegetables. Depending on what you’re going to use the fruit for, consider fro...

The primary nutrients in raw coconut meat are fat and some carbohydrate, which both provide energy. One-half cup of shredded raw coconut meat provides 592 calories, primarily as fat and some carbohydrate. It is a good source of fiber and has small amounts o...

Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and low in calories. Eating them makes you feel full longer, which can help you lose weight.
Different fruits and vegetables have different nutrients, (many of which are needed for healthy skin). In order to get all the nutrients, ...

The primary sugar in fruit is fructose, which some refer to as fruit sugar. When consumed in a serving of fruit, the sugars in fruit, are not ‘bad’ and are not likely to make you gain weight. It is when purified forms of sugar – table sugar, hone...

Pineapple is an excellent source of Vitamin C. It is also rich in Manganese (a mineral needed for healthy bones and for using fats, proteins and carbohydrates). You can find healthy recipes for using pineapple here....

You can get fiber in your diet by eating recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables (Click here to see what is recommended), and by choosing whole grain foods, such as 100% whole wheat bread, oatmeal, barley, brown rice instead of highly processed grain foods like wh...

Fruits, like vegetables, can be very helpful in weight loss. They are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes you feel full for longer. How much you should eat every day depends on your age, sex and activity level. You can find out how much you need by clicking here...

Pure baby food should be served immediately or you can refrigerate it and use it within three days. If you need to store it for longer periods of time you can put the baby food in the freezer immediately after preparation until you are ready to thaw it for your baby....

Allergies to fruits are possible, but not common. It is also possible, but rare, that there are hidden allergens in fruit. Therefore, it may be possible to be allergic to the flesh of the fruit, the skin of the fruit, or something that is on it. An all...

Dried fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients. Some vitamins may be reduced in the drying process, so they may not have exactly the same nutrients as frozen, but they are still definitely worth eating. Remember that a serving size of dried fruits and veget...

As yet, it is not known whether there are specific fruits and vegetables that are good to eat for arthritis. There are a few studies suggesting that diets that include fruits and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk for arthritis, but these are observati...

One portion is half a cup of fresh, frozen or 100% fruit juice, and ¼ cup of dried fruit. The weight (grams) depends on the particular fruit. For example, half a cup of blueberries weighs 62g, but half a cup of cantaloupe weighs 78g. You can find out how much a serv...

The nutritional value of fresh fruit will be affected by its age. Harvesting too soon or over-ripening will affect the nutrient content. Many other factors such as soil, climate, amount of sun etc. also affect nutrient content of fruit, so it is difficult to...

A medium pear contains about 7.5mg of Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and small amounts of several organic acids. These organic acids include malic, citric, fumaric and shikimic acids, and the amount varies with the growing conditions of the pears. Pears are included in the list...

All fruits and vegetables can fit into a meal plan for diabetes. Starchy vegetables such as potatoes and peas, and fruits may need to be considered for their carbohydrate content. Additionally, some canned fruits that are packed in syrup and sweetened frozen fr...

The key thing to remember is to eat a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables everyday to get a wide range of valuable nutrients like, fiber, potassium, and vitamins.
Furthermore, diets rich in potassium may help to maintain healthy blood pressure levels....

There is a very complicated formula involved in reading the expiration code for Green Giant Products. So, instead of confusing you any further I have a telephone number you can call to get help with this. Please call 1-800-998-9996 with the product in front of you. A live ...

There are many types of vegetarian diets. Some include only vegetables (vegan) while others include dairy products, eggs and/or fish. Vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, which makes them helpful in weight control or loss. They are also rich in many nutrients....

“Sneaking” vegetables and fruits into kids’ foods is a way for parents to feel comfortable that their kids are getting the good nutrition from fruits and veggies, especially if they are picky eaters. It is also a good way to add extra nutrition to meals b...

Seeds are ready to store or eat when the disk at the back of the flower has turned dark brown. You can easily remove the seeds by rubbing two heads together, or just rubbing your palm over the seeds. You should store raw seeds in a cloth bag in a place with good air circul...

Most people don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables so good job! Since you are a 38 year old female who is moderately to very active, it is suggested that you eat 4 ½ to 5 cups or more of fruits and vegetables each day. See how many servings you need here. Eati...

Prepare apple dishes just before serving to minimize browning (oxidation). Protect cut apples from oxidation by dipping them into a solution of one part citrus juice and three parts water. You can find this information on the http://www.fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov/ website ...

Your best bet is to consult a registered dietitian or a certified diabetes educator who can design a meal plan for you based on your individual medical needs and with consideration of medications you may be taking for diabetes. Your physician may be able to recommend someo...

Most fresh fruits and vegetables have had very little done to them before they get to the stores. Some, like packaged salads, have been washed. Some have been washed and waxed to prevent wilting. A few have been irradiated to kill harmful bacteria and delay ripening, but t...

Vegetables contain primarily starch, however the amount in most vegetables is low since they tend have a high water content. Starchy vegetables like potatoes, peas, corn and legumes are exceptions. Jicama is a root and is generally consumed as a vegetable. It has a high wa...

Children are often picky eaters, and it is sometimes not easy to get them to eat their fruits and veggies. You can find out how many fruits and veggies kids need by clicking here. Parents are a very important part of the solution! They need to offer children fruits and veg...

The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume at least 4,700 mg of potassium from foods a day. This recommendation can easily be met by consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables each day to meet recommendations, which you can see here. To see f...

To prepare mustard greens for cooking, wash well to remove any remaining grit. Then, cut the leaves away from the core and stem. The leaves can be cooked whole or they can be cut into 1-2 inch wide slices. Mustard greens can be cooked several ways – boiling, steaming...

Soups and stews are a great way to consume a variety of vegetables. It is true that some nutrients can be lost from the vegetables as they are simmered for a long time. However, in the case of stews and soups, a large amount of the nutrients are captured into the liquid th...

Virtually all fresh mushrooms are grown here in the . Many canned mushrooms are a product of . With the recent concerns about product from , however, you may start seeing more canned mushrooms again from the . You can identify them by reading the label. For more specific q...

All fruits and vegetables can fit into a meal plan for diabetes. Starchy vegetables such as potatoes and peas, and fruits may need to be considered for their carbohydrate content. Raw cranberries do not contain very much natural sugar. However, because they are very bitter...

In a cooking sense, tomatoes are a vegetable. Botanically, they are a fruit because of what part of the plant they are. Believe it or not, there was an actual ruling on this issue in 1883 by the Supreme Court. Part of that ruling clarifies this matter: “Botanically s...

Flax is a plant that is grown for both its seed and its fiber. The fiber is used to weave linen. The seed is used in food products such as breads and cereals, and for making flaxseed oil. The fat in flaxseed is unsaturated and heart healthy. It contains alpha-linolenic aci...

It is important to keep your vitamin K intake steady when you are on coumadin. Do not suddenly change the amount you consume. Cooked spinach is high in vitamin K, and raw spinach is a moderate source. It is generally recommended that you do not consume more than ½ c...

Some nutrients are destroyed while cooking vegetables, while absorption of other compounds (like lycopene in tomatoes for example) are enhanced with heat. Steaming is a fine way to cook vegetables. What is most important is that you eat vegetables: it doesn’t matter ...

Cirrhosis of the liver is often treated with a low sodium (salt) diet. Many processed foods are high in sodium, so it is best to prepare meals yourself, without adding salt. · do not use salt at the table · Reduce the salt used in food preparation. Try 1/2 te...

Your situation is challenging, but not impossible. There are a number of resources that provide suggestions and recipes for feeding children with PKU. Click here to see suggestions for developing good eating habits in children with PKU(starting on page 60). The website www...

Sweet potatoes and beets are roots of plants, and as such, grow in the ground. They should be washed well before they are cooked to remove any lingering soil. The skins of both sweet potatoes and beets can be eaten....

I would not. The quality of frozen vegetables is best when they are cooked from the frozen state, or immediately after thawing. After a week in the refrigerator the corn is probably spoiling and may not be safe to eat (even if you cook it). A good rule of thumb is “w...

There are kid-friendly recipes here and suggestions for getting kids involved, including free downloadable materials on this website. You can also see if our online catalog has what you are looking for....

Eating whole fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned, or dried) or 100% juice made from them, is always the best way to consume fruits and vegetables. Especially during pregnancy, it is better to get your fruits and vegetables from food instead of pills. You can find ...

Cooking vegetables can reduce the amounts of some vitamins (like vitamin C) but can make other nutrients more easily used by your body (like lycopene in tomatoes). If you prefer cooked vegetables, cooking them quickly is best, either in the microwave, by steaming or in a s...

The tangelo is a cross between a mandarin orange and a grapefruit. It is sweet, very juicy, easy to peel and has only a few seeds. It has a nipple at the stem end. It is a member of the citrus family and is an excellent source of vitamin C. It is low in calories, very low ...

A diet consisting of only fruits, nuts and grains would not be able to provide all the necessary nutrients. Vegetables, dairy foods and protein foods all provide other nutrients that cannot be obtained in adequate amounts or at all by consuming only fruits, nuts and grains...

Click here to see pictures of what counts as a cup of fruit or veggies. The guide shows that 2 medium whole carrots count as a cup. Although asparagus is not shown, the guide indicates that 2 stalks of celery counts as a cup. Depending on the size of the asparagus, you cou...

Frozen fruits and vegetables are usually frozen immediately after picking so they retain most of their nutrients. While the nutrients will be retained, the texture is a bit different, so the final juiced product may be a bit different than if using fresh produce. Frozen fr...

Most fruits and many vegetables can be eaten raw. They should be washed before you eat them, and some can be washed ahead and stored. They can be eaten alone or in salads, salsas, and smoothies. You can find the best way to store your fresh fruits and vegetables here, and ...

Some resources for your sister-in-law can be found on this site. There are kid-friendly recipes and suggestions for getting kids involved, which can be seen by clicking here. She can check out our mom to mom section to see what other mother say. The recommendations for eac...

Your situation is challenging, but not impossible. As a first step, you might explain to your son that discomfort that he is having could be helped by including fruits and vegetables. Take him to the store and ask him to select one that he would be willing to try. Perhaps ...

There is a very complicated formula involved in reading the expiration code for Green Giant Products. So, instead of confusing you any further I have a telephone number you can call to get help with this. Please call 1-800-998-9996 with the product in front of you. A live ...

You can find information about white potatoes on this site. Click here to learn about buying and storing potatoes, as well as the nutritional benefits. There are some delicious recipes using white potatoes such as ‘garlic mashed potatoes’ and ‘ranch style...

The triggers for gout attacks can be very individual. Drinking too many sodas isn’t necessarily a trigger by itself. However, drinking too many sodas may be a sign of unhealthy eating, which can be a trigger. Individuals with gout can identify possible triggers for g...

Green vegetables and fruits contain a variety of important vitamins and minerals, although each kind will contain different amounts. We encourage eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to ensure that you are getting the wide variety of nutrients that they have ...

Green vegetables and fruits contain a variety of important vitamins and minerals, although each kind will contain different amounts. We encourage eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to ensure that you are getting the wide variety of nutrients that they have ...

It sounds like the beans have freezer burn. They are safe to eat, although the quality, including taste, may have deteriorated. Click here for some green bean recipes that may help to perk them up a bit or try adding them to a soup or stew....

Eating more fruits and veggies is an admirable goal. Dried fruits and vegetables might work well for you and there are many varieties available now. You might try dried cherries, cranberries, mangoes, blueberries, apricots, pineapples, apples, blackberries and of course ra...

Ideally, a child who is 2 or 3 years old should eat a total of 2 cups of fruits and vegetables every day. Toddlers like to eat small amounts often, and so you can offer fruits and vegetables several times each day. They should have 3 ounces (servings) of breads and cereals...

There is some evidence that small, frequent meals may encourage weight loss. This is because more of the calories are lost as heat. Eating frequently also has psychological benefits since you never feel deprived. The tricky part is making sure that you eat fewer calories t...

Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables is helpful to cancer patients. Different vegetables and fruits have different nutrients, so eating a wide selection makes you more likely to get what you need. Try to have all the colors (like red peppers, orange yams, blueber...

All fruits and vegetables can fit into a meal plan for diabetes. Starchy vegetables such as potatoes and peas, and fruits may need to be considered for their carbohydrate content. Additionally, some canned fruits that are packed in syrup and sweetened frozen fruits will ha...

Your situation is difficult, but not impossible. Did you know that when it comes to fruits and vegetables, all forms count – canned, frozen, dried, and juice, as well as fresh? Keep your eye open for special sales and for coupons. A nutritionist may be able to help y...

There are many foods that can fit into a diet for diabetes. Some foods naturally contain carbohydrate, and fruits and dairy products contain carbohydrate in the form of sugar. Read the ingredient label to find out if sugar has been added to the food – these foods are...

Your situation is difficult, but not impossible. Did you know that when it comes to fruits and vegetables, all forms count – canned, frozen, dried, and juice, as well as fresh? Keep your eye open for special sales and for coupons. A nutritionist may be able to help y...

Your situation is difficult, but not impossible. Did you know that when it comes to fruits and vegetables, all forms count – canned, frozen, dried, and juice, as well as fresh? Keep your eye open for special sales and for coupons. A nutritionist may be able to help y...

Cucumbers are fat free and sodium free, low in calories and a good source of vitamin C. They can be added to salads and sandwiches, pickled, or made into cold soups. The cucumbers in the grocery store are waxed to prevent wilting, and I recommend that you remove the skin b...

There are many behaviors that are associated with better health, including a well balanced diet that is low in fat and contains a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. It is important to be at a healthy weight, which can be achieved by balancing calorie intake with exerci...

When it comes to fruits and vegetables, all forms count. Eating a piece of fruit provides water, and fiber in addition to the nutrients in the fruit. Dried fruit simply has less water, but still provides fiber and nutrients. Dried fruit is more condensed, so the same amoun...

The answers to your questions are right here on this sight! Click here to see some of the benefits of eating colorful fruits and vegetables and to read about some of the important nutrients provided by fruits and veggies....

This site has a wealth of information on different vegetables. You can learn about how to select, store and prepare different vegetables as well as their nutritional value by clicking here. There are many great recipes for vegetables, which you can see in our recipe sectio...

Absolutely! Dried fruits only contain less water. Since they are more condensed, an equal amount of dried fruit has more calories than an equal amount of canned, frozen or fresh fruits. However, dried fruits still contain the fiber and nutrients. Dried fruits are a conveni...

Fruits and vegetables provide many nutrients that we get from nowhere else. These include vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals, all of which are needed for good health. Most fruits and vegetables are very low in fat and calories, so are helpful for controlling your...

Fruits and vegetables provide many nutrients that we get from nowhere else. These include vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals, all of which are needed for good health. Most fruits and vegetables are very low in fat and calories, so are helpful for controlling your...

Any fruit would be fine to put into a fruit basket for a person who is a diabetic. All fruits can be included in a diet for diabetes with proper meal planning and by including an appropriate portion. If you are including canned fruits, those that are packed in water or jui...

Peaches are 89% water by weight, oranges 87% and strawberries and watermelon weigh in at 91% water. You can find nutrition information for these and other fruits by clicking here. Green coconuts hold a great deal of water which you can pour out or drink with a straw! (This...

Including fruits and vegetables in your family’s meals will help keep them healthy. Remember that all forms count, so canned, frozen, dried and 100% juice are all good! Buy fruits and vegetables that are on special, and try to take advantage of canned and frozen sale...

It can be very challenging to stretch food dollars. Keep in mind that all forms count – canned, frozen and juice are also packed with nutrition. Watch for specials and sales on frozen, canned and juices, in addition to fresh. Click here to access a free brochure call...

Citric acid is used in foods to enhance flavor and inhibit bacterial growth. Malic acid is also used in foods to enhance flavor. They do occur naturally in foods; however, when they are used for these purposes, they likely are produced chemically by a chemical company. You...

Fruits and vegetables vary in their nutrition content and potential health benefits. The best recommendation to assure that you are receiving all the health benefits that they have to offer is to consume a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables every day. To see ho...

It is true that overcooking vegetables is associated with more loss of some nutrients, although not all. However, cooking past the crisp tender stage until vegetables are a little softer but not overcooked does not result in major differences in nutrient content.&nbs...

There are many claims about the benefits of juicing, most of which are not backed by scientific evidence. However, juicing can be a convenient way to consume fruits and vegetables when on the run or for something different. Juicing different combinations of fruits and vege...

Carrots and beets do contain more sugar than many vegetables, but less than most fruits. One carrot, 7 inches long, contains 5 grams of sugar, while 1 medium beet contains 6 grams of sugar. By comparison, one banana contains 19 grams of sugar and a large apple contains 25 ...

It is difficult to say. We have no way of knowing what the nutritional value of an apple was 100 years ago since methods of analysis that are available today were not available then. Many factors affect nutritional value including environmental conditions suc...

I’m afraid not. While fruited yogurt contains some fruit, you’d have to eat several cups of yogurt to get a serving of fruit. You might try making a smoothie with yogurt and frozen and fresh fruits and vegetables. It will taste like yogurt, but you can add one ...

The nutritional value of produce depends on many different factors, including weather, amount of sunlight, storage conditions and also, when it is picked. However, differences in nutrition between ripe and unripe produce are likely small since produce is usually picked whe...

The total carbohydrate content of a medium banana is 30 grams, of which 19 grams is in the form of sugar. The remainder is in the form of starch. Click here for more information about bananas. If you are not sure how to fit bananas or other foods into your diet, I would en...

You may want to plan your diet with the help of MyPyramid.gov by clicking here. You can enter your information and get a plan that is suitable for your height and weight. There are also tips for vegetarians on the site which you can get by clicking here....

People who study plants (Botanists) will tell you that fruits are the parts of the plant that have seeds. Nutritionists view fruits as parts of the plant that have seeds and are usually sweet, juicy and eaten for snacks or dessert. So while tomatoes and cucumbers are fruit...

Nopales, or pads from the prickly pear cactus are enjoyed in many countries of the world. They are an excellent source of vitamin C and magnesium and a good source of fiber. The are not very high in beta carotene. The diet during pregnancy should include a variety of foods...

The nutritional value of produce depends on many different factors, including weather, amount of sunlight, storage conditions and also, when it is picked. However, differences in nutrition between ripe and unripe produce are likely small since produce is usually picked whe...

Fruits and vegetables, nuts and whole grains are the best sources of fiber in the diet. You can check the amount of fiber for many fruits and vegetables by clicking here and looking at the nutrition facts panel at the bottom of the page....

As yet, there are no specific dietary recommendations for restless leg syndrome. It is generally recommended to eat a well-balanced diet and in some cases, to avoid caffeine and alcohol. However, it is best that you check with your doctor about treatment recommendations. M...

It is not true that standard fruit and vegetables bought from supermarkets are so contaminated with pesticides that it would be healthier for children to not eat them. The benefits of eating fruits and vegetables far outweigh any potential risks. There are guidelines for l...

Everyone reacts differently, but some vegetables like beans, and those in the cabbage family, can cause more gas for some people. You might want to note if some are particularly bothersome and begin with smaller amounts of those. Many people also get gas when they first st...

Instructions for cooking frozen vegetables are on the package. The time will vary somewhat depending on the vegetables. For best quality, follow the instructions on the package. If you are re-heating a vegetable that has already been cooked from frozen, you ...

Many fruits and vegetables are good sources of potassium, but there are some conditions, like kidney or heart failure, that require a diet low in potassium. Some fruits and vegetables that are low in potassium (with less than 100mg of potassium in ½ a cup) are: Appl...

The old recommendation was for a combination of fruits and vegetables for a total of 5 servings. The new recommendations are for a little more. You can find out exactly how much is recommended by clicking here....

Fruits and vegetables contain different amounts of vitamin C. When they are juiced, most of the vitamin C can be found in the juice. You can check the vitamin C content of many fruits and vegetables here, in our database,...

There are some studies that show that folks with very low incomes generally buy few fruits and vegetables. As income increases, they buy more fruits and vegetables and so consume more of the vitamins and other nutrients that fruits and vegetables provide....

Botanically, they are a fruit because of what part of the plant they are. In a cooking sense and in terms of how they are used in meals, tomatoes and cucumbers are a vegetable. Believe it or not, there was an actual ruling on this issue in 1883 by the Supreme Court. Part o...

Pregnant women should ideally eat a great variety of fruits and vegetables to make sure that they get a wide variety of nutrients. All fruits and vegetables are suitable, and trying to eat fruits from every color group (red, yellow/orange, blue/purple, green and white) is ...

Congratulations on your weight loss! Dried fruit can be a delicious part of a healthy diet. Drying the fruit removes the water and very little else, so one apple sliced and dried, has the same calories as the original apple. Since the water has been removed but all the sug...

Congratulations on your interest in life-long nutrition! Beans and nuts are the best vegetable sources of protein; most fruit are not good sources. Variety and moderation are essential for good nutrition. You can create a customized diet for yourself at mypyramid.gov that ...

Fruits and vegetables are important because of the wide variety of nutrients they provide that can’t be obtained from other foods. The serving recommendations are to assure that adequate amounts of these nutrients are obtained. Recommendations are based on age and ac...

Wash the potato well, removing dirt and particles on the skin. Poke the potato several times with a fork to create holes for the steam to escape so your potato doesn’t explode. Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel. Cooking time will vary depen...

The 5-A-Day campaign has been replaced by Fruits & Veggies More Matters® since most of us need to eat MORE fruits and veggies each day. Many nutrients needed for good health come only from fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits and veggies can also help with maintain...

The recommended storage for pears, peaches and apples is to store ripe fruit in the refrigerator. The fruit deteriorates more quickly at room temperature, and that would include nutritional value as well. Click here to see tips on storing fruits and vegetables....

Most fruits and vegetables are low in calories because they are low in fat (avocados, olives and coconuts are exceptions). You can find out how many calories are in particular fruits and veggies by clicking here and checking the nutrition facts panel for each one....

Refrigerating unopened canned food should have no effect on the quality. Some people prefer canned fruit, juices and some vegetables to be chilled for eating. Of course, once opened, all leftover canned food should be placed in the refrigerator....

Most fruit contains sugar and so must be “counted” in the diabetic diet. Some fruits with less sugar are strawberries (8g in 8 medium berries), kiwi (13g in 2 fruit) and tangerines (9g in 1 medium fruit). You can find the amount of sugar in many fruits by click...

Most fruit does not ripen further after cutting. In future, check for ripeness before you cut the cantaloupe. It has a distinctive smell when ripe, and the blossom end will “give” a little when pressed. If it is not ripe when you buy it, ripen at room temperatu...

The 5-A-Day campaign has been replaced by Fruits & Veggies More Matters® since most of us need to eat MORE fruits and veggies each day. Many nutrients needed for good health come only from fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits and veggies can also help with maintain...

Since apples contain carbohydrate, they will raise blood sugar. Blood sugar will increase more slowly if the apple is eaten whole versus consuming juice because the fiber in the apple helps to slow absorption some. The increase in blood sugar is not harmful. A person who h...

I recommend that you check the WHO website for their official recommendations, you might start here: http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/fruit/en/ You can click here for the number of cups recommended by the USDA....

It’s great that your daughter loves vegetables. One alternative would be to buy nonfat or low fat Ranch dressing or see if she likes other nonfat varieties. You can also make your own using the powder mix and nonfat ingredients. Click here to see some recipes for hea...

There are numerous reasons to plan healthy menus. For children and teenagers, it is important for their growth and overall health and well-being, as well as getting them in the habit of eating healthfully as adults. Eating healthfully is important for adults to manage weig...

A healthy menu includes a variety of foods, including many fruits and vegetables. You can create a healthy diet for yourself at http://www.mypyramid.gov/ . Click here to see how many fruits and vegetables you need each day....

Children need all the nutrients so that they can grow normally. Food is the best way to provide nutrients (instead of pills) and you can create a balanced diet for your child here at www.mypyramid.gov....

There are no specific fruits or vegetables that will help with fat that accumulates in the belly. Weight management is the best approach to control accumulation of fat. Consuming recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables is ideal as part of a weight management program t...

I’m afraid not. Cellulite often worsens with weight gain, and eating lots of fruits and vegetables instead of fatty foods can help prevent weight gain, but there is no particular fruit or vegetable that will make cellulite disappear...

All fruits and vegetables contain fiber. Some that are very good sources are apples, pears, raspberries, spinach and most kinds of beans. You can check the amount of fiber for many fruits and vegetables by clicking here and looking at the nutrition facts panel at the botto...

We do not have such menu planning resources. There is a website for the Assisted Living Federation of America – http://www.alfa.org/ – which has a variety of resources and may connect you with others as well. I also suggest you contact your local area Office of...

Weight gain is a result of consuming more calories than what is expended through activity each day. Most fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and water, which makes them filling and lower in calories. Usually, one will get full before too many calories from fruits and v...

All fruits can be worked into a meal plan for diabetes, but since they do contain carbohydrate, the portions need to be controlled. Blood sugar responses to different foods vary for everyone and are affected by factors such as medications for diabetes and exercise. The Ame...

It is now recommended that we eat more than 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Fruits and vegetables contain many nutrients needed for health, including vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals. Fruits and vegetables may help prevent weight gain and reduce ...

One starch exchange and one fruit exchange each have 15 grams of carbohydrate. The starch group includes starchy vegetables such as potatoes, corn and peas, and one serving is ½ cup. One and one-half cups of vegetables from the vegetable group would also have 15 gra...

Children sometimes prefer raw vegetables to cooked so offer both to see which she likes better at the moment. They usually like to dip, so veggies can be dipped in anything they like such as Ranch dressing, salsa, cheese sauce, light sour cream, peanut butter or applesauce...

All types of fruits and vegetables can help with preventing hypertension and some forms of cancer. A wide variety of fruits and vegetables will allow you to get all the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. Eating MORE fruits and veggies every day can also help you to...

Rhubarb can be frozen, and there are a number of different ways of doing so. There is a website – www.rhubarbinfo.com/ - that has everything you want to know about rhubarb, including how to freeze it. Enjoy!...

Replacing one starch with an apple is fine. Adding more fruits and veggies, especially without anything added to them, is almost always good. It’s now recommended that we aim for more than 5 servings of fruits and veggies each day, but if your blood glucose is well c...

We no longer carry brochures or lists of fruits and veggies by color group. We use color as a message to encourage a variety of choices, and we promote eating a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables every day....

Consuming fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk for heart diseases, some cancers, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. That is, those who consumed higher amounts of fruits and vegetables had decreased risk for chronic diseases. Click here to see other reasons for ...

Corn is a good source of Vitamin C, it contains fiber, and it is low in fat. Corn is a good vegetable to include as part of a diet that includes a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. For some recipes that use corn in different ways, click here...

The Acai berry has been used by natives of Brazil for a long time. It is harvested from a specific palm tree found in the rainforests of Brazil. It is a small, round berry that is available dried or as juice. It has a high antioxidant activity, which is one of the ways tha...

All fruits can be part of a diabetic diet. Most tropical fruits are sweet so need to be “counted” as part of your carbohydrates, but they are also brimming with nutrients that you need to be healthy. Some fruits will raise your blood sugar more than others, and...

I am not aware of anything in spinach that would make your feet tingle if you eat large quantities. If this is something that has been going on for awhile, I would suggest you consult with your doctor in case it is a symptom of something else, and minimally, to be comforta...

The most that I can tell you is that it was grown in the USA. Sometimes, the supermarket tells where the produce is from i.e. “Washington State apples” etc. If it is not given on the display, the produce manager may know....

Prunes and other fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber are most helpful with constipation. Prunes are especially helpful- fresh from the package, stewed or as prune juice. Old fashioned “prune therapy” recommends 4 oz. (or more)of warm prune juice before...

Fruits and vegetables are essential for good health. They provide nutrients including vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals in significant quantities. Most fruits and vegetables are low in calories and fat, so can help to prevent weight gain. Eating fruits and veget...

You can eat northern beans green from the vine. However, cooking them helps to make them more digestible. You may experience gastric discomfort by eating them raw. You should be able to grow them in
Alabama
. I suggest you contact your local cooperativ...

Fruits and vegetables, nuts and whole grains are the best sources of fiber in the diet. You can check the amount of fiber for many fruits and vegetables by clicking here and looking at the nutrition facts panel at the bottom of the page....

Antioxidants reduce the harmful effects of oxidation in some chemical reactions in the body. Oxidation causes free radicals to form, and these are associated with several diseases, including heart disease and some forms of cancer. Some vitamins, including vitamins C and E ...

Fruits and vegetables contain nutrients that act as anti-oxidants, so consuming recommended amounts will provide them in the diet. The recommended level for intake of anti-oxidants is not currently known. Your best assurance for obtaining adequate amounts of anti-oxidants ...

Liquefying fruits and vegetables will not kill vitamin and nutrient content. Some vitamins are affected by exposure to light, air, and cooking in too much water. Prepare vegetables as close to serving as possible, and store leftovers covered in the refrigerator....

Wash the greens well under running water- a colander is helpful. Gently shake off as much water as you can then blot the leaves with paper towels, or dry in a salad spinner if you have one. Wrap the whole batch in a couple of paper towels and store in a zip top bag in your...

The richest sources of plant proteins are dried beans and nuts. Half a cup of dried peas or beans, (like kidney beans, garbanzos or pinto beans) or one ounce of nuts contains as much protein as an ounce of meat....

Most vegetables are safe to eat raw, and the peels of many can be eaten if they are washed well. While it is safe to eat them raw, some, like potatoes, artichokes, dried peas and beans, and a few tropical ones like breadfruit, plantains and true yams are much more easily d...

The water content of fruits and vegetables will vary. In general, they have a relatively high water content, but some of the watery, crisp types of vegetables and juicy fruits such as lettuce, cucumber, and apples or oranges have more than the starchier ones such as p...

The reason that tomatoes should not be refrigerated is that the taste and texture deteriorate once they are chilled. If they will spoil before you use them, it’s better to refrigerate them once they are really ripe, but know that the quality might not be exactly the ...

There is no information on the preferred salad greens for children. I would encourage offering a variety of different greens to children. It might be best at first to avoid those that are more bitter and strong flavored until the child gets used to eating greens....

They can be kept until you decide by their appearance that you don’t want to use them, such as excessively brown, soft, etc. Small brown spots can be cut out and the apple can still be used for baking.
...

It will depend on what form you are eating. In general, a small to medium piece of fruit is a serving. A serving of cut-up fruit and vegetables is ½ cup; a serving of dried fruit is ¼ cup, and a serving of lettuce greens is 1 cup. Recommendatio...

A: I’m guessing that you are talking about fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits and veggies everyday is important because they provide nutrients that our bodies need to function at its best. Eating fruits and vegetables every day also replenishes wat...

A: Jicama is a unique and tasty Mexican fruit, rich in fiber and Vitamin C! A cousin of the sweet potato, it has a crisp texture and a sweet taste. A jicama can be enjoyed just as it is, after removing the skin (just like you’d peel a potato) and cutti...

I’m glad you enjoyed it! Jicama is best grown from seeds. Check with your local garden stores or on line. Click here for a great recipe using jicama and here for more information on this delicious tuber.
...

A: While potassium balance is important for muscular function and cardiovascular health, there are some conditions that require the adoption of a low-potassium diet. It’s great that you’re actively seeking nutritious foods to eat that still allow you ...

Green peppers are very high in vitamin C- 1 medium pepper has almost double the amount you need in a day. They also contain small amounts of vitamin A, fiber, iron and calcium. Onions are high in vitamin C, a good source of fiber, and contain small amounts of iron and ca...

The fruit is very good for you. Regular Cool Whip contains 1g sugar and 1.5g fat in 2 tablespoons, so if you top your fruit with ¼ cup each time, you will add 4g sugar and 6g fat to your diet each day. This amount of extra sugar should not be a problem, but these ca...

A: We encourage eating fruits and vegetables as part of a weight loss plan because in addition to being nutritious and providing important nutrients, they help to promote feelings of fullness and delay hunger between meals, while not providing a lot of calories. ...

Watermelon is good for diets. Two cups of watermelon (diced) contain 80 calories, 0 fat, 21g carbs (17 of them sugar) and no sodium. Watermelon is an excellent source of vitamins A and C and contains lycopene, a phytochemical that is good for health. It also provides small...

I’m afraid not. Vitamin D is called the “sunshine vitamin” because our body makes it when the sun shines on our skin. (How much is made depends on the time of year, skin color and sunscreen use as well as other factors). Fruits and vegetables do not conta...

Recommendations tend to be individual based on tolerance, type of cancer etc. You can find some general recommendations and meal planning guidelines from the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. If you are having specific nutrition issues, a registered diet...

We don’t have recipes for juicing. However, you can juice any combination of vegetables and/or fruits that sound good to you without including carrots. Some enjoy combinations of fruit and vegetable juices. Use your imagination!...

Generally people with high blood pressure are advised to have less sodium (salt), and to lose weight if overweight. Most fruits and vegetables are low in sodium and can be helpful with losing weight. For these and other reasons, eating more fruits and vegetables improves h...

Although cucumbers are botanically a fruit, they are a vegetable in the culinary sense, which is why they are listed as such. The same applies to tomatoes, squash and several other foods that are commonly used as vegetables. Believe it or not, there was an actual...

Many different factors can affect the quality of produce that you buy including weather, season, ripeness, storage conditions, storage time or a combination of these. Click here for tips on selection and storage of fruits and vegetables....

All fruits and veggies are healthy for us, click here to learn more. The key is to eat a colorful variety every day, and meet recommendations. To see how much you should be eating each day, click here. For some delicious quick recipes to meet your recommenda...

All fruits and vegetables are good for weight loss, and can fit into a weight loss plan. Their main advantage for weight loss is that they are high in fiber and water and low in calories relative to the amount you can eat. Fruits and vegetables that are crunchy tend to hav...

There are no specific fruits and veggies that have been shown to promote a healthy mind. However, food patterns that include plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables may be associated with overall health, including a healthy mind. Click here to see how much you s...

There is no evidence that juicing will prevent cancer recurrence. I would encourage a well-balanced healthful diet as well as a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, stress management, adequate rest etc. as a general approach to overall disease prevention. Al...

Although fruits are very healthful and are low in calories relative to the amount you can eat, they do contain more calories than most vegetables, with the exception of starchy vegetables. The recommendation is lower for fruits to allow adequate amounts of all foods t...

Beets can be boiled, whole and unpeeled in water until soft. The red color will stain fingers, so either wear gloves, or use a fork and knife to slip off the peel once cooked. Greens can be eaten raw or cooked. Click here for more information on beets.
The different varie...

A ½ cup serving of strawberries has 42.3 milligrams of Vitamin C; ½ cup of blueberries has 7.2 milligrams and 1 medium kiwi fruit has 70.5 milligrams. Our Fruit and Veggie Database will give you information about other nutrients in these foods.
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When properly cooked, nutrient loss from fruits and vegetables is small. Overcooking will result in the most loss of nutrients. When they are prepared for freezing, the loss of nutrients is also very small. Commercially frozen fruits and vegetables are proce...

According to government statistics based on the Behavioral Risk Factor and Surveillance Survey (BRFSS), about 24.3% of adults reported that they ate fruits and vegetables 5 or more times a day. However, the current recommendations for most adults are actually 7 to 13 ...

The wheels are for sale at a reasonable price in our catalog, which you can view here. There is also information on selection, storage and handling for each fruit and vegetables on this site, which can be viewed here....

Yes. Simply wash, remove the stalk, slice or shred, and freeze. You might consider freezing the amount you expect to use in the recipe in separate bags or containers, so that you will be able to thaw only the amount you want to use. You can find good zucchini recipes here....

I am not aware of any recommendation to reduce fruit intake for patients with cancer. While fruits do contain sugar, they also contain a whole array of nutrients that may be tremendously beneficial, and whole foods are a much better choice than supplements. (All our cells ...

The new pyramid suggests 6oz of grains per day for some groups, including girls age 14-18 and boys age 9-13. Half your grains should be whole grains. These are in addition to the fruits and vegetables you should be eating each day. Click here to see how many fruits an...

Depending on what type of vegetarianism you plan to follow, you need to become familiar with what foods will meet your dietary requirements. If you are breastfeeding, your requirements for calories and nutrients will be higher, and you need to be sure you are meeting ...

In general, ½ cup of vegetables, fruits and juices is a serving. One cup of leafy greens such as lettuce, and ¼ of dried fruit is a serving. For whole fruits, a small to medium piece would count as one serving. ...

The wax that is used on fruits (and vegetables) is applied to stop them from drying out.
It is safe to eat. In fact it’s similar to the wax that is found in chocolate bars, so most of us eat it without even knowing!. Some wax will be removed when you wash your ...

It is generally recommended that young teens do not lose weight, but instead, try not to gain any more as they grow. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can help. Click here for great recipes using fruits and vegetables, and here for help with ways to get more into y...

Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are good sources of fiber. Click here for fruits and vegetables that are good and excellent sources of fiber. Click here to find out how many servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended each day. It is also important to drink enoug...

Including juices in his diet is okay, especially vegetable juices which are lower in sugar. Juice from sweet fruits and vegetables would still have to be “counted” in the carbohydrates in his diet. The very best way for him to increase fruit and vegetable intak...

Celery does not increase the metabolic rate. Celery is however very low in calories- one 8” stalk contains only 6 calories. This makes it very useful for weight loss, since one can get a lot of eating pleasure from celery and consume very few calories. Perhaps most i...

Slow cooker recipes usually suggest adding all but the quickest cooking vegetables together, and in this case, meat, onions, carrots and potatoes would go in together. You can find other recipes using fruits and vegetables here.
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It is difficult, if not impossible to make kids eat veggies if they don’t want to. There are some tips that will help. First and foremost, it is important that they see you eating them, and that they be served daily at meals so that kids are used to ...

The new Fruits & Veggies—More Matters® program has replaced the previous 5 to 9 A Day for Better Health Program. Although the current recommendations for fruit and vegetable intake for most adults are in the range of 7 to 13 servings a day, the program d...

I’m assuming you mean drinking 100% juice instead of eating whole fruit. The calorie content of your diet will be affected by the amount of juice that you drink. A serving of juice is ½ cup, and will have a similar number of calories to a small to medium ...

It may be good for you to get some help from a Registered Dietitian. You can find one in your area by clicking here. I encourage you to attend any post-surgery nutrition classes offered by the hospital where you had your surgery. The nutrition staff offering these classes ...

You may preserve your peppers in a variety of ways, including freezing, drying and pickling. Click here to find instructions from the University of California at Berkley on how to do this. You can also find some great recipes for using peppers by clicking here. ...

A serving is one quarter cup of dried fruit, one cup of leafy vegetables, like lettuce, and half a cup of everything else. We’re moving away from servings and moving towards cups, so you can see how many cups are recommended each day by clicking here.
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One cup of heart of palm contains more than 20% of the daily value for vitamin B6, potassium, zinc and copper. It also contains more than 10% of the daily value for vitamin B2, vitamin C and iron. It is low in fat and sodium, and like all fruits and vegetables, contains no...

I’m afraid that there are not any fruits, vegetables, or any other foods that prevent wrinkles or sagging skin. Wrinkles are caused by many factors, including smoking, your life-long exposure to the sun and your genetic makeup. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetabl...

This has not been studied. In the short term, you probably can. For long-term health, it is not advisable to try. Fruits and vegetables do contain important vitamins and minerals, many of which are water-soluble and need to be consumed daily to prevent defic...

That’s a very difficult question because both are very healthy and contain a variety of different nutrients and substances that are important for health. Click here to find more information about the nutritional content of fruits and vegetables, as well ...

The recommended amount of fruits and vegetables that we should eat each day has increased. Click here to see how many cups you need. One serving of most fruits and vegetables is ½ cup, so a large carrot would be about 1 cup, or 2 servings. The average cereal bowl of...

Pineapples available in the grocery have been picked ripe and can be used immediately. Pineapples should be plump and firm with fresh green leaves on the top. Look for a mild pineapple scent at the stem end. Color may not indicate ripeness, since some varieties are green w...

Potatoes that turn green are producing protective chemicals, and if the potatoes are not otherwise damaged from cutting or bruising, it can be a sign that the potatoes are old and may be rotting. The highest levels are usually in the sprouts. If the amount of greening...

A good resource for that information is the Economic Research Service of the USDA (www.ers.usda.gov). There is information about annual production and disappearance of different fruits and vegetables....

You can find amounts needed on this site by clicking here. The recommendations are based on those in MyPyramid for age, gender and activity level. You can also view recommended calorie levels by age, and the associated recommendations for fruits and vegetables at...

Green bags are said to work because they absorb and remove ethylene gas, which is produced naturally by fruits and vegetables, but accelerates ripening. I have not yet had the opportunity to try them. Click here for tips on storing fruits and vegetables.
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The orange/yellow fruits are high in beta carotene, and include apricots, cantaloupe and mango. Grapefruits and prunes are also good sources. Click here for information on vitamin A, which is what our bodies make from beta carotene....

The best approach is to estimate as best you can. For instance, in general one cup looks like the size of a baseball. Generally, a small to medium piece of fruit will be equal to a cup. To help estimate, view pictures of one cup portions here. Our kids ...

Kohlrabi can be eaten raw or cooked. To eat it raw, wash thoroughly then peel, slice and add to salads, slaws, or vegetable platters. To eat it cooked, you can peel, chop and add it to stir fries, soups or stews; or steam/boil until crisp or soft (your preference). Enjoy!
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Sunchokes (Jerusalem Artichokes) are native to North America and have their peak season in the fall and winter. You might see them sporadically until fall. If you Google “sunchokes” you might find a source in your area. ...

The following “recipe” significantly reduces the potassium in potatoes but does not eliminate it completely:
Peel potatoes and slice 1/8 inch thick.
Place in warm water. Use 10 times as much water as potatoes.
Soak for 2 hours.
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It is very difficult to tell when a honeydew is completely ripe. When purchasing, they should feel heavy. Most melons taste better if left un-refrigerated for one or two days. Click here for more information about selection and storage.
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Corn on the cob can be boiled, baked, grilled or cooked in the microwave.
IN WATER: Choose a pot large enough to hold the amount of corn you want to cook, with room for water to cover the corn. Cover pot and bring water to a boil on high heat. Add husked...

I’m not sure how much you are eating each day. Click here to see how much of different foods you should be eating each day. If the amount seems too much, try spreading out over the day in small meals and snacks. For fruits, dried and 100% juice might be le...

Feeding toddlers is sometimes a challenge! Eating a limited number of foods is common in young children, and this too shall pass. Try not to make meal time a battleground, and ask your toddler to try one bite of other foods you have available at meals. Remember that you ma...

Plant sterols are compounds from some plants that reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed in your intestine. They are added to spreads such as Benecol™, Taking Control™ and Phytrol™ and have been found to reduce blood cholesterol levels when the spreads...

Dried fruits will still have the acid that was in the fruit before drying. However, since they have less moisture, it may be less likely that juice from the fruit will come in contact with the tongue. You would still want to be careful that seeds don’t get ...

Your best bet would be to think variety when planning salads. Iceberg lettuce provides fiber and many people like the taste in a salad. Adding other vegetables to any salad, such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, raw broccoli, carrots, etc. will increase the nutrit...

Our Fruit and Veggie Database has information about the nutrient content of different fruits and vegetables. You can see what each nutrient does in our Key Nutrients section. Nutrition information is based on the USDA nutrient database.
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Dried beans, peas and legumes such as kidney beans, chick peas, black beans and lentils have a relatively high protein content compared to other vegetables. They are high in fiber, contain almost no fat by themselves, and are a healthy way to get protein in the diet.&...

Glad you like our site. Please visit often as we are continually adding new content.
Here are two references:
Rickman, J.C., C.M. Bruhn and D.M. Barrett. 2007. Nutritional comparison of fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables. Part 2.Vitamin A...

The recommended amount for most adults is 7 to 13 servings a day, depending on age and activity level. The amount for younger children is usually less, also depending on age and activity level. Recommendations through other organizations usually say 5 or more to ...

As yet, there are no specific foods that have been proven to be beneficial to eat for arthritis. There is a small amount of research that eating cherries helps some people, but it is not yet proven, and what works for one person may not work for another. Certainl...

Taro contains very little iron, since ½ cup provides only 3% of the daily value.
It is a good source of fiber, (½ cup provides just over 3g) and so may be helpful in relieving constipation. Increasing your fiber intake, drinking adequate water and getting re...

Fruit usually satisfies a sugar craving so it could be simply that you are in the habit of eating baked goods. You might try substituting healthier baked goods (like a fruit cobbler) for your donuts- you can find some in our recipe section by clicking here.
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Gas that comes from eating fruits and vegetables is often caused by the fiber that they contain and people react differently. Your body will get accustomed to this if you increase your intake slowly, over a period of several weeks. Some fruits and vegetables like beans and...

An avocado that has gone bad may be exceptionally soft, or not. The best way to find out is to cut it open and check the color. Look for the normal bright yellow-green color. You can cut out soft spots and use those parts of the avocado that still have the normal...

At this time, we don’t have any other cold drinks with vegetables, including tomato juice. However, new recipes are always being added, and your request will help us enhance our choices. You can always try experimenting with combinations.&nbsp...

When you drink fruit juices that are 100% fruit juice, they provide vitamins, minerals and other healthful substances found in the whole fruit, except fiber, so they are one good way to include fruits in the diet. It should say 100% juice on the label. Fr...

Fruits and vegetables are both good for you. They both contain important nutrients and other substances that have been shown to be beneficial for health. Additionally, they both taste great and add interest to meals. The maximum benefit of eating fruits and ...

Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, and one provides all the vitamin C you need for a day. Oranges are also a good source of folate (one of the B vitamins) and fiber, and provide some potassium, calcium and magnesium. They also provide phytonutrients. An orange c...

Fruit on the face is certainly not harmful, and if you find it helpful, then enjoy the experience. I’m afraid that there is little research suggesting that applying fruit is beneficial but we know that it’s good for all of you, including your skin, when eaten.
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Pears are high in fiber, as well as a number of other fruits and vegetables, which you can see by clicking on “Fiber” in our Key nutrients section. I would recommend you speak with your physician about using over the counter products. Some general guidelin...

You can see fruits and vegetables that contain iron in our Key Nutrient section. Absorption of iron from these foods can be enhanced by consuming them with a food that is a source of Vitamin C. Sources of Vitamin C can also be seen in our Key Nutrient sect...

Fruits and veggies are an important part of a meal plan for managing diabetes. However, they do contain carbohydrate in the form of sugar in fruits and starch in vegetables. They are also high in fiber, which helps to delay absorption of sugar. Depending on...

For a low fiber diet, canned fruits and vegetables and 100% fruit or vegetable juice work well. Look for fruits packed in juice or rinse the syrup from the fruit to save calories. Click on our weight management section to see more tips for weight control. If...

There is evidence that diets rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat can reduce the risk of cancer. The American Institute of Cancer Research suggests that the following fruits and vegetables may be particularly helpful: legumes including soy beans, berries, crucifero...

I’m assuming you mean fruits and vegetables. A serving is considered to be ½ cup of vegetables and cut up fruit, ½ of 100% juice, ¼ cup of dried fruit, and 1 cup of lettuce.
Generally, a small to medium piece of whole fruit is a serving.&nb...

Eating fruit is a very healthy thing to do, and most of us don’t eat enough. If you are eating so much fruit that it prevents you from eating other healthy foods like vegetables, protein foods, grains and dairy products however, then you are probably eating too much....

We usually suggest storing in a plastic bag which prevents it from drying out, but foil may work. Celery absorbs odors from other vegetables (like cabbage), so you want to store it in something that will keep it separate from other foods.
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We recommend eating a wide variety of vegetables, and fruits, every day. Each contains different vitamins, minerals and other healthful substances that have been associated with promoting health. To assure that you obtain all the potential health benefits, eat re...

All fresh produce should be washed under running water before eating, even if you don’t plan to eat the skin, such as melons and oranges. Germs can be passed to the flesh when cutting. Wash the produce just before you plan to use it, not when you put it awa...

Raw potatoes are edible, although they may be less digestible, potentially causing gastric discomfort. Any part of the potato that is green should be peeled or cut away and not consumed. This also applies if the potato is to be cooked. ...

Gently wash the beets, leaving the thin skin intact for cooking. It will easily peel off under cold running water after cooking. When trimming, leave at least an inch of the leaf stems attached and do not remove the root. The stem and root are removed after cooki...

Although generally consumed as a fruit, watermelon has been considered both a fruit and a vegetable. To get the facts about why, visit http://www.watermelon.org/pdfs/media/presskit2006/WatermelonFacts.pdf. For some delicious ways to enjoy watermelon (besides by i...

Great! Frozen spinach is just fine and very convenient. By blending you are using the whole fruit and not only the juice, which means that you are getting the benefit of the whole fruit including the fiber. If you are diabetic then you need to “count” the fruit...

Some chemicals may end up inside of the fruit, but most remain outside and can be removed by washing thoroughly. Researchers maintain that the benefits of eating fruits and vegetables far outweigh any risks that may be caused by any chemicals that remain on them....

Any type of processing has the potential to reduce nutrient content. However, the amount lost when fruits, and vegetables, are frozen or canned is very small, and they are comparable to fresh in nutrient value. Further, produce is canned and frozen right after harvest, whe...

Many people have asked us the same question! View our Frequently Asked Questions to see the answer. Check out our Recipe database to see delicious ways to include tomatoes and other fruits and veggies in your diet.
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The exact relationship between fruits and vegetables and cancer risk is not entirely clear, and is likely related to several factors. The scientific literature suggests that the benefit may be a result of foods and substances in foods working together as opposed to sp...

Many people have asked us the same question! View our Frequently Asked Questions to see the answer. Check out our Recipe database to see delicious ways to include tomatoes and other fruits and veggies in your diet.
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Juices that are 100% fruit juice will be similar in nutrient content to fruit from which they came, with the exception of fiber. Pomegranates and blueberries do contain modest amounts of Vitamin C. Read the label to be sure that the juice blend is 100% fruit juice and look...

Eating lots of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet can help to reduce cholesterol levels which may help with reducing plaque in the arteries. Studies suggest that men who eat more fruits and vegetables are less likely to have an enlarged prostate, but it does n...

Thanks for asking! September is now Fruits & Veggies More Matters Month. The Federal guidelines now suggest more than 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day for most people, so our new slogan and logo reflect that change. You can find tips to include in your news...

Green onions are a good source of vitamins A and C, contain some folate (a B vitamin), fiber and chromium, and small amounts of many other nutrients including potassium, iron, calcium and magnesium. They are members of the Onion family and contain phytonutrients. Beets are...

Picky eaters can be trying. Click here for some suggestions on helping them eat more fruits and vegetables. It would be best to ask your granddaughter’s doctor to recommend a multivitamin if one is necessary.
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I am sorry that your grandson has this condition. You could use the help of a Registered Dietitian and can find one in your area by clicking here. Alkaline foods do not necessarily reduce reflux, since most of the acid that causes the pain is produced by the stomach, but c...

You can eat fruits and veggies throughout the day to help calm your hunger. You can find out how many cups you need each day by clicking here. We recommend increasing your fruit and vegetable intake slowly (one or two extra servings each day every week) since sudden i...

It’s wonderful that you are including more plant based foods for you and your family. It is important that young children, like yours, get enough nutrients to support their growth, and without knowing exactly how they are eating and growing, it is difficult to say if...

If they are wet from condensation then spreading them out on paper towels should allow them to dry quickly. Discard any that have become leaky or moldy. If you don’t plan to use them within 3-5 days, it may be best to freeze them. Freeze on a cookie sheet, unwashed. ...

You can find nutrition information in our database by clicking here. Mushrooms are a good source of riboflavin (a B vitamin) and copper, and provide small amounts of potassium and some of the other B vitamins....

We often suggest two snacks each day, often mid morning and mid afternoon, but it depends on when you eat meals. Snacks are meant to be a “mini meal” to provide nutrients you need and prevent you from getting ravenously hungry before your next full meal. Each o...

There are about 80 calories in one medium orange. You can find out about some of the other nutrients in oranges by going to our database here. If you eat 8 oranges a day it will contribute about 640 calories to your diet and will probably prevent you from eating other frui...

Calcium fortified juices are good sources, and some vegetables including collard greens, spinach and dried peas and beans also provide significant amounts. You can check on the amount of calcium in many fruits and vegetables in our database here....

You can find great ways to cook vegetables in our “Top ten ways to cook almost anything” on our website here. Most vegetables are best cooked just until tender since this allows them to retain most of their nutrients.
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According to the Food Buying Guide for Child Nutrition Programs issued by the Food and Nutrition Service, one pound of artichokes As Purchased equals 0.23 pounds of cooked, drained artichoke, about 1/3 cup cooked artichoke from bottoms only, and about 2/3 cup cooked, drain...

It’s great that you have incorporated fruit and veggie activities into your teaching. With the change in the program from 5 A Day to Fruits & Veggies—More Matters®, we have updated our activities for children. There are some activities related to &...

Fruits and vegetables are good ideas for healthy snacking. Whole fruit (like grapes, berries) or cut up veggies that he likes (perhaps, carrots, celery) would be good to send in. You could also add a dipping sauce (perhaps peanut butter, applesauce or ranch dressing) in a ...

Our kids’ website – www.FoodChamps.org - has an “Eater Meter” that can help kids track their fruit and veggie intake, as well as other activities and recipes to help make eating fruits and vegetables fun. ...

These values are generated from a USDA nutrient database. Differences are likely due to rounding. There may also be a small amount of fat (less than 1 gram) that would not show up on the nutrition information....

It is safe to eat those potatoes. Cut off the sprouts and use the potatoes as you would normally. The sprouts have used nutrients from the potato to grow, so have further reduced the nutrients available.
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There is some evidence that soy protein in the daily diet may fight coronary heart disease, the number one cause of death in the United States. When included in a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet, it may help to lower cholesterol. Other reported benefits of soy are less cl...

Canned and frozen vegetables are both full of different nutrients. There may be small differences due to processing. Click on our current “About the Buzz”, to read about the nutritional value of all forms of fruits and vegetables....

Fruit and vegetable recommendations vary by person depending on age, gender and activity level and range from 7 to 13 servings a day for most adults. These numbers represent total intake of fruits and vegetables. Click here to find the recommended intake for you; Frui...

Yes, it is definitely worth it. There may be some minimal loss of nutrients, depending on cooking method, but overall, adding fruits and vegetables to recipes is one good way to increase consumption and nutrient intake. Click on our “About the Buzz” s...

Sounds like a good project. Your science project should give you the answer to that question! It may depend on the fruit or vegetable – storage guidelines differ. Click here to see our Fruit and Veggie Database which has storage recommendations.
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All three are nutritious vegetables. You can visit our vegetable database here to find nutrient information for each. Each vegetable has videos that will help you select, store and use them. You can also get to our video center here.
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These are appropriate pureed vegetables to offer your baby beginning at 5-6 months. In addition to fiber, fluid is important in preventing constipation. Your baby still needs to be drinking his recommended amount of breast milk or formula, and offered 1-2oz of water during...

Radishes can be added to stews, or thinly sliced and added to stir-fries. They can also be pickled. Learn how to choose good ones in our new video center, here.
Like pumpkin seeds, it is safe to bake and eat squash seeds....

Microwaving food is completely safe. Any type of cooking changes the molecular structure of food, and may cause a small loss of nutrients. Nutrient losses with microwaving are similar to nutrient losses with steaming, and they are very minimal. ...

You can click on Fiber in our Key Nutrients section to see what foods are Excellent and Good sources of fiber. If you want to know the fiber content, visit our Fruit and Vegetable Database to see the content of specific fruits and veggies....

Dried fruits are great for a snack – about ¼ cup is equivalent to a serving of fruit. However, dried fruits are not a good substitute for a meal. They can be included at meals as part of a salad, or in a side dish like a rice pilaf or with a cooked v...

Good vegetable sources of protein are dried beans and peas such as black beans, navy beans, kidney beans, etc. and lentils, and split peas. Check out our Recipe section to see some delicious recipes that use beans and peas....

It’s actually better to wash your fruits and veggies BEFORE you peel, cut or slice them. Use a vegetable brush for those things that have been in dirt like potatoes and carrots and other root vegetables, as well as watermelon and other melons. You shouldn’...

We encourage everyone to eat a variety of colors of fruits and vegetables every day. This will make it more likely that a wide range of nutrients will be consumed, since different nutrients are often associated with different colors of fruits and veggies. Click here to fin...

Dried fruit contains most of the nutrients of fresh ones since only the water is removed by drying. Nutrient losses during the drying process are usually small. 100% juice contains little or no fiber, but contains most of the other nutrients found in fruits and vegetables....

Most fruits and vegetables are low very low in fat, with the exception of avocados and olives. The fat in these two items are considered “healthy” fats. Our Fruit and Vegetable Database has information about specific fruits and vegetables. You can...

Kale is usually cooked before eating to soften it, though some of the smaller leaves can be shredded and added to salads. The stems tend to be tough and so are usually removed before use. It may be easier to puree just the leaves without stems. You can find good kale recip...

All produce loses nutrients during storage. Some nutrients are lost more quickly than others. After a week in the refrigerator your apples would still retain most of their nutrients. You can find some exciting information about selecting, storing and using apples in our ne...

Legumes are vegetables (and are also in the Meat/Protein group of My Pyramid). Half a cup of chick peas constitutes a serving of vegetables, but the volume is reduced when the beans are pureed to make hummus. Whatever else is in your hummus, like tahini or sun dried tomato...

Vegetables that are botanically fruits include tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, pumpkin, beans and sweet peppers. Yes, avocados are botanically a fruit. Others have asked the same question. Click on our “Frequently Asked Questions” for more informati...

In general, grapes grow best with full sun exposure, mild winter temperatures, freedom from frost, and good soil drainage. However, this may vary by the cultivar of grape. If you want to grow grapes, I suggest you contact your local Extension office to obtain inf...

Juice, as well as all fruits and vegetables can usually be worked into a meal plan for diabetes. However, individuals vary in their blood sugar responses to foods. Others have asked about including fruit and juice in a diet for diabetes. Click on our Frequen...

Apples are a delicious and easy fruit to eat. Plus, they come in many varieties so you can enjoy different apple flavors. Click on our ‘Apple’ page to see nutritional information and benefits as well as ways to enjoy apples. Check out our Video center to l...

Fruits and veggies are generally low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, fiber and water. They are helpful in maintaining a healthy weight. People who eat lots of fruits and veggies may have a lower risk of chronic diseases including stroke, type 2 diabetes, some t...

Carrots are high in vitamin A and a good source of vitamin C. Vitamin C may be lost during storage. Click here for our database to see how best to store carrots.
Elizabeth Schneider in “Vegetables from Amaranth to Zucchini” states that yellow and purple carro...

The ugli fruit is a member of the citrus family and can be used anywhere that you would use an orange or grapefruit. Ugli is slightly sweeter than a grapefruit and about the same size, but not quite as sweet as an orange. It is juicy and delicious.
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It is great that you are trying new vegetables. Store parsnips, unwashed, in a bag in the refrigerator. Store rutabagas in the vegetable crisper drawer of the refrigerator. Both will keep up to one month. Check our Recipe section for some recipes that u...

Fruits and veggies can be good snacks for diabetics. Vegetables with dip, dried, frozen or canned vegetables, 100% juice, a handful of nuts, fresh, frozen, canned or dried fruit may all be good choices. Most fruits and veggies are low in fat and calories, and high in fiber...

You can peel potatoes and leave them submerged in water overnight to stop them from changing color. Soaking overnight will reduce some nutrients, including vitamin C and potassium since they will be lost in the water. Click here to see our new videos on potatoes....

Great Northern beans are in both the protein and vegetable groups of My Pyramid. They are good sources of low fat protein, like all dried peas and beans, and so are especially helpful in dieting. Click here for nutrition information on great northern beans from our databas...

You are correct that botanically, they are fruits because they contain seeds. However, in a cooking sense and in terms of how they are used in meals, tomatoes and cucumbers are vegetables. Believe it or not, there was an actual ruling on this issue in 1883 by the Supreme C...

When beans, peas and lentils are consumed as a meat alternative, they are considered to be the protein for the meal. However, when they are not used as the main protein source for the meal, they would be considered a vegetable. Understandably, it can be a bit con...

Endive is a type of lettuce and includes 2 main varieties, curly endive (including the smaller frisée) and escarole. Leaves are somewhat bitter and can be eaten raw or cooked. These are not to be confused with Belgian endive which is actually in the chicory family a...

Dried peas and beans, including kidney, pinto, garbanzo, black, lentils and many others are all good sources of protein. Click here for information on the nutrition content of dried peas and beans in our database; click here to search for recipes using dried peas and beans...

The CDC describes how to wash fruits and veggies on their website here. There are a number of their publications that you can download here. We have information on handling many fruits and vegetables in our database here.
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There may be slight differences in the nutrition content of different varieties of apples but nutrients will also vary by the degree of ripeness, how long they have been stored and the soil in which they were grown. Published values are usually available only for “ap...

Please check with your child’s physician for foods that are recommended for his condition. You can find many excellent recipes which include fruits and veggies in our recipe database here. Good luck!
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Fruits and vegetables contain varying amounts of water. Juicy fruits, such as citrus fruits are about 87% water by weight, or provide about ½ cup in a medium sized fruit. Dried fruits, like raisins may only be 15% water by weight. You can find information for indivi...

All fruits can be worked into a meal plan for diabetes, but since they do contain carbohydrate, the portions need to be controlled. Blood sugar responses to different foods vary for everyone and are affected by factors such as medications for diabetes, composition of the m...

All fruits contain some fiber. You can see which fruits, and vegetables are high in fiber by clicking on Key Nutrients. You can also see the fiber content of different fruits and vegetables in our Fruit and Veggie Database.
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Our bodies are perfectly capable of digesting fruits and vegetables. They do not need to be juiced to be digested, and while consuming some of our fruits and vegetables as juice is fine, juicing removes the fiber, or indigestible material from fruits and vegetables. This f...

Fruits and veggies affect people differently, but some people find that vegetables in the cabbage family, like cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli, produce gas. Gradually increasing your fruit and vegetable intake, including those in the cabbage family, will allow your body ...

Especially during the winter when it’s cool inside, food tends to cool quickly. You might try preparing the veggies last so they are still hot when served, or serving them in a small, covered container which will reduce the rate of cooling.
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When freezing vegetables, including all kinds of squash, the first step is blanching. This process inactivates enzymes that are in veggies to prevent spoilage while frozen. You can click http://www.recipezaar.com/bb/viewtopic.zsp?t=106869 to see how to prepa...

Understanding attitudes and barriers to eating fruits and vegetables is an important first step. Then tools (such as recipes, tips, etc.) and experiences (such as sampling) can be provided to assist people in eating more....

A serving is a specific amount of food that is referenced for the purpose of providing a recommendation or providing nutrition information. For instance, one serving of cooked veggies is ½ cup. On a food label, nutrition information is given for a specific...

Jicama is a sweet, juicy Mexican root often added to dishes for flavor and its crispy texture. It is found to be rich in vitamin C and a good source of fiber, while remaining low in calories and sugars. A great way to incorporate jicama into a meal is to add some slices to...

Studies on frozen foods suggest that the majority of the nutrients are retained when they are frozen, so your method should work well. Depending on what you juiced, you might add some of the pulp to soups, either canned or home made, or use it to make a vegetable stock. Th...

Veggies and fruits are different from a botanical perspective – that is, they come from different parts of the plant. From a nutrition standpoint, veggies tend to have carbohydrate in the form of starch, whereas fruits have carbohydrate primarily from the natura...

The best way to store a cantaloupe is at room temperature and not in a window. Unlike some other fruits which can contain starches that will convert to sugar after being picked from the vine, cantaloupe will not become sweeter no matter how long you let it sit. However, co...

There are not foods that will lower potassium when eaten. Usually people with high potassium levels are advised to eat foods that are low in potassium. Click here to find some foods that are low in potassium in our Frequently Asked Questions.
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Dried peas and beans are the best source of vegetable protein. If you are unable to eat beans, you can get plant protein from tofu and textured soy protein products, soy milk, nut butters and whole grains. You can check the protein content of many fruits and vegetables in ...

No, it is not likely that your creatinine levels are related to your sweet pepper intake every day. Creatinine is a by-product of the break-down of creatine, a naturally-occurring amino acid found in the body, and is usually used as a determinant of kidney function. We mos...

Strawberries have about 50 calories a serving, which equals about 8 medium-sized berries. Grapes contain about 60 calories a serving, or about ½ cup. For more information on calorie, vitamin and mineral content of several fruits and vegetables, visit our Fruit and V...

Letting a child taste a variety of fruits and vegetables is important in not only deciding which ones they would prefer but also for their health! Due to a human’s taste-bud development, it is hard for young children to appreciate, or even like the taste of most vege...

Vitamin B12 is not found in any fruits or vegetables and is found mainly in animal foods. Fruits contain natural sugars which provide energy for your body. You can check the number of calories in many fruits in our fruit and vegetable database here.. ...

There may be some losses of nutrients from all fruits and veggies when they are cooked, although the losses are usually small. When incorporating fruits and veggies into soups, stews, one-dish meals etc. you may actually be retaining some of the nutrients in the liqui...

Usually, this is in the baby carrots that have been peeled prior to packaging. Carrots contain water and it’s possible that some of the water is leaching from the cells of the carrot, but can’t evaporate from the plastic bag. There also may be some moistur...

Yes, it is true that the way vegetables are cooked can be important in avoiding unnecessary nutrient loss. Steaming causes the least amount of vitamin and mineral loss because the vegetable is surrounded in steam rather than submersed in water since many vitamins in vegeta...

When fruits are dried, the water is removed, but everything else, including all of the sugar that was in the fresh fruit, remains. This makes dried fruit very sweet, but it contains the nutrients that were in the fresh fruit, so it is still good for us. Without the water, ...

While nutrient loss does occur after a fruit or vegetable loses its protective peel or skin (e.g., has been cut into), the loss does not occur immediately. It may take up to a few days for any major vitamin and/or mineral loss to occur. It is recommended that fruits and ve...

The amount of calories found in fruit depends on the fruit! Visit our Fruit and Veggie Database for more information on the nutrient content of several fruits, including calories and serving sizes. ...

Beta-carotene, a precursor for Vitamin A and an important nutrient for vision, immune function and bone and skin health is mostly found in orange and yellow fruit and vegetables and also in dark, leafy green vegetables. These can include: carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, p...

Most fruits contain sugar, but they also contain vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and fiber which contribute to our health. Fruits can be part of a healthy diet, even for diabetics, as we explain here, in our Frequently Asked Questions....

Papayas contain the enzyme papain, which breaks down protein and is used to make meat tenderizers. I’m afraid that eating papayas will probably not break down the protein in your blood. You might want to speak with a Dietitian who will be able to help you with your d...

You can see which vegetables are in season in the winter by clicking on our “What’s in season?” section. Canned and frozen forms of fruits and vegetables can contribute to the variety consumed all year long....

Including fruit in smoothies is a great way to get fruit in the diet. For individuals who have diabetes, the quantity of fruit consumed at one time needs to be monitored for its effect on blood sugar. Nutrients are not lost in the blending process. The rate ...

Bananas are grown only in tropical areas. Mature bananas are picked while still green and shipped by boat to their destination. Carefully refrigerated at 56°F during shipping, they can remain green for up to 3 weeks during the transportation process, and then the...

One and a half cups of shredded butter lettuce provides 84 micrograms of vitamin K, or about 105% of the amount the average adult needs in a day. You can check our new videos on butter lettuce in our video center here....

Both dried fruit and fresh fruit are generally equal in nutritional value. However, dried fruit is higher in calories because it is concentrated when the water is removed. Pineapple is an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese, and contains small amounts of some of th...

Most fruits do contain sugar which diabetics need to plan for in their diet. Fruits are different from cakes, candy and white flour because in addition to sugar, fruits also contain minerals, vitamins and fiber that promote health. You can check our response to this questi...

The great thing about fruits and vegetables is that they are all good for you – in proper quantities in the diet. They contain various vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber. Vitamin A, iron, and folate are important to consume during pregnancy. Dark leafy greens ar...

Jicama, a root vegetable, is often eaten raw or cooked and contains many beneficial nutritents. You are correct – they are a good source of fiber, as well as vitamin C. Additionally, they are fat free and sodium free, making them a great addition to a diet. See our F...

All sources of fruit, including fresh, canned, dried, frozen, and 100% juice, will contain many nutritional benefits. The fiber content may be lower in the juice, as you consume more skin and pulp (the fiber-rich parts of the fruit) when you consume the whole fruit. Howeve...

Fruits contain sugar, but they also contain many nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytonutrients that contribute to your health. Reducing therefined sugar in your diet, from foods like soda, candy, ice cream and baked goods would be most helpful. One larg...

Both fruits and vegetables contain many nutrients that contribute to health. You can find out about dried, canned fruits and veggies and changes in ripe fruit in our Ask the Expert section by clicking here. Cooking vegetables can cause some nutrient loss, like vitamin C, d...

I’m afraid that I could find only 1 reference to making juice from pomegranates, which suggests that the average fruit will yield 4-6oz, or ½ to ¾ cup of juice. Like all fruits, some are juicier than others. If your juice is concentrated, then ½ ...

Both fruits and vegetables contain many nutrients that contribute to health. You can find out about dried, canned fruits and veggies and nutrient changes in ripe fruit in our Ask the Expert section by clicking here. Cooking vegetables can cause some nutrient loss, like vit...

Botanically, all fruits have seeds, so some of our vegetables, like tomatoes, are technically fruits. You can find an explanation as to why we call them vegetables here, in our Frequently Asked Questions.
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According to many reviews, they seem to work, especially for green leafy vegetables, to keep them crisp longer. They claim to work by absorbing ethylene gas produced by ripening fruit, which makes the fruit spoil faster. The bags should be rinsed and air-dried between us...

The FDA publishes a list of the nutrients in the Top 20 fruits and vegetables that you can find here. In addition, we have a Fruit and Vegetable Produce wheel available for purchase (for $2.95) which lists the nutrition information for 50 fruits and vegetables. You ca...

Corn has many benefits! Corn's contribution to heart health lies not just in its fiber, but in the significant amounts of folate that corn supplies. Corn is also a good source of thiamin, which is important in energy production and is also critical for brain function. Corn...

Research has shown that vitamin C levels increase in some fruits as they ripen. These include mango, papaya and honeydew. Changes in vitamin C have not been studied in all fruits, but flavor changes significantly as fruits ripen, and vitamin C is a major contributor of fla...

Many people would love to have your problem! It is hard to say how much you should weigh and how many calories you need without knowing your height, age, gender and activity level. You can find calorie levels of individual foods at the UDSA Nutrient Database here and can c...

I assume that you are referring to jicama, which is a sweet, juicy Mexican root often added to dishes for flavor and its crispy texture. It is found to be rich in vitamin C and a good source of fiber, while remaining low in calories and sugars. A great way to incorporate j...

Fruits and vegetables overall tend to be rich sources of fiber. However, some fruits with a lower fiber content include cantaloupe (1 gram per ¼ melon), cherries (1 gram per cup), or watermelon (1 gram per 2 cups). Some vegetables that contain lower amount...

Kidney failure requires a diet that is low in potassium. Some fruits and vegetables that are low in potassium (with less than 100 mg of potassium in a ½ cup serving) include: applesauce, blueberries, cranberries, lemons or limes, pears, cabbage, cucumber, green...

Fruits and vegetables that contain 3.6 mg or more iron per reference amount (20% of the Daily Value per reference amount) qualify to carry the claim “high in iron.” Examples of these include lentils, spinach, white beans, and winged beans. Fruits and ...

I’m sorry, but PBH is not familiar with these African fruits and vegetables, and we have no reliable nutrition content for them. You can search the UDSA Nutrient Database here and you might look on the web for nutrition databases from other countries. Good luck!...

Each individual pomegranate contains hundreds of seeds surrounded by translucent flesh, both of which are edible. They are delicious eaten raw, added to salads, or as a juice. Refer to the following video on an easy, mess-free way on how to open a pomegranate and...

While there is not an exact quantity of fruits and vegetables that one should consume to lose weight, it may be beneficial for you to review the "How Much Do You Need" section on our website for determining how many cups of fruits and vegetables are recommen...

No portion of the leek is poisonous. On the other hand, make sure you wash leeks very well due to the fact they are grown in sandy soil. Although many recipes call for only the “white parts” of leeks, the light green portion is just as edible. Th...

While I do know that Hormel Chili with Beans is packaged in a 15 ounce can, I do not know whether or not there is ½ cup serving of beans within the 15 ounce can. If there is, you can count the beans as a serving of vegetables. The company may be able to tell...